Bowling Green Lawyer Handles Social Security Disability Actions

Aggressive Kentucky advocate represents people unable to work

A physical condition that forces you out of work might lead to financial collapse. Fortunately, if you’ve worked fairly steadily over the years, you should be entitled to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments once the five-month waiting period elapses. My Bowling Green firm, Michael D. Lindsey, advises Kentucky residents regarding every aspect of SSDI claims, including eligibility rules, benefit amounts and the appeals process if an initial claim is rejected.

Skillful adviser details eligibility and benefit issues for area clients

If you have been unable to perform substantial gainful activity for at least five months, SSDI benefits might provide the long-term support you need to adjust to the lost income associated with your disability. In a free initial consultation, I can evaluate your situation and go over key issues, such as:

• Eligibility — People sometimes confuse SSDI with other programs designed to assist disabled, indigent individuals. SSDI is an insurance program, which means that eligible claimants receive their benefits no matter what their financial status might be. If the medical requirements are met, the key factor is whether the disabled person has enough work credits to qualify for benefits. Usually, a person who has worked for at least five of the previous 10 years can be compensated.
• Benefits — The amount someone receives under SSDI is based on their average income over the previous 10 years. In 2009, the maximum monthly benefit was set at $2,861. Individuals who have reached retirement age can no longer obtain these benefits.
• Appeals — Initially, many worthy SSDI claimants are rejected, but many reversals occur during the appeals process. The first step is to request a reconsideration within 60 days of the time you receive the denial letter. At this stage, a different examiner evaluates your claim. Sometimes, a different set of eyes is all that’s needed to achieve a proper result. If not, I will advocate for you during a hearing before an administrative law judge. Frequently, this in-person appeal is an effective way to make the strongest argument possible. From there, your matter can be brought to the Appeals Council or federal court.

With more than a quarter-century of experience in personal injury and disability law, I can guide you through the SSDI claims process and battle to obtain the benefits you have earned through years of work.

Contact a Kentucky lawyer for a free consultation about a Social Security disability matter

At Michael D. Lindsey, in Bowling Green, I advise Kentucky clients on Social Security disability initial claims and appeals. I offer a free initial consultation to potential claimants. To make an appointment, please call 270-282-4710 or contact me online.