Social Security Disability Law

Living with a disability can be physically, emotionally, and financially challenging. When an illness or injury prevents you from working, Social Security Disability benefits (SSD) can provide much-needed financial support. However, applying for SSD benefits can be complex, and many claims are initially denied due to errors, lack of medical evidence, or bureaucratic obstacles.

At the Illinois Balanced and Restorative Justice Project (IBARJI), we understand the difficulties that disabled individuals face when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Our experienced Social Security Disability attorneys are here to guide you through the application process, appeal denied claims, and fight for your rights to secure the benefits you deserve.

Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides two main types of disability benefits:

1. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI benefits are available to individuals who:
✅ Have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a required number of years.
✅ Have a qualifying medical condition that prevents them from working.
✅ Meet the SSA’s definition of disability (expected to last at least 12 months or result in death).

2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a needs-based program for individuals who:
✅ Have little to no income or assets.
✅ Are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older.
✅ Do not have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI.

If you are unsure which benefits you qualify for, our attorneys at IBARJI can evaluate your situation and guide you through the process.

Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits

To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet the SSA’s strict medical and work requirements.

1. The Medical Requirement

The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments (Blue Book) that outlines conditions that qualify for disability benefits, such as:

✅ Musculoskeletal Disorders – Spinal injuries, arthritis, chronic pain, amputations.
✅ Neurological Disorders – Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, ALS.
✅ Mental Health Disorders – Depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder.
✅ Cardiovascular Conditions – Heart disease, stroke, chronic heart failure.
✅ Respiratory Diseases – COPD, asthma, lung disease.
✅ Cancer – Late-stage or aggressive forms of cancer.

Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if it severely limits your ability to work.

2. The Work Requirement (SSDI Only)

To qualify for SSDI, you must have:
✅ Earned enough work credits by paying Social Security taxes.
✅ Worked at least five of the last 10 years before becoming disabled.

If you do not meet these work requirements, you may still be eligible for SSI benefits.

How IBARJI Can Help with Your Social Security Disability Claim

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be overwhelming, and many applicants face denials due to paperwork errors or lack of medical evidence. At IBARJI, we assist clients with:

1. Initial SSDI and SSI Applications

✅ Gathering medical records and supporting documentation.
✅ Filing a complete and accurate application to avoid unnecessary delays.
✅ Ensuring your claim meets the SSA’s strict guidelines.

We work to maximize your chances of approval from the very beginning.

2. Appealing a Denied Social Security Disability Claim

The SSA denies about 70% of initial disability claims, but a denial does not mean you are ineligible. If your claim was denied, we can appeal the decision through a multi-step process:

✅ Reconsideration – We submit additional medical evidence to challenge the denial.
✅ Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) – We represent you in a hearing to argue your case.
✅ Appeals Council Review – If the ALJ denies your claim, we request a higher review.
✅ Federal Court Appeal – If necessary, we take your case to federal court.

We fight tirelessly to overturn wrongful denials and secure your rightful benefits.

3. Gathering Medical Evidence

Strong medical evidence is key to winning your case. We help:
✅ Obtain detailed medical records from your doctors.
✅ Work with medical experts to provide written statements about your condition.
✅ Ensure your medical documentation meets SSA standards.

4. Representing You at Disability Hearings

If your case goes to a disability hearing, we:
✅ Prepare you for questions the judge may ask.
✅ Present strong evidence and legal arguments in your favor.
✅ Cross-examine medical and vocational experts to challenge unfavorable testimony.

Having a skilled attorney by your side significantly increases your chances of winning an appeal.

Common Reasons Social Security Disability Claims Are Denied

Many applicants receive a denial letter due to:

🚫 Insufficient Medical Evidence – The SSA requires detailed medical records proving your disability.
🚫 Earnings That Are Too High – If you earn above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits, you may not qualify.
🚫 Failure to Follow Treatment – The SSA may deny your claim if you don’t follow prescribed treatments.
🚫 Lack of Work Credits (SSDI) – If you haven’t worked enough, you may be ineligible for SSDI.
🚫 Failure to Respond to SSA Requests – Missing paperwork deadlines can result in denials.

If your claim was denied, don’t lose hope—we can help you appeal the decision.

How Much Can You Receive in SSDI or SSI Benefits?

The amount of Social Security Disability benefits varies based on:

✅ SSDI Payments – Based on your average lifetime earnings before disability. In 2024, the average SSDI benefit is about $1,537 per month, but amounts vary.
✅ SSI Payments – Based on financial need. In 2024, the maximum federal SSI benefit is $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 for couples.

We ensure that you receive the highest possible benefits based on your eligibility and financial needs.

Why Choose IBARJI for Social Security Disability Cases?

At IBARJI, we are dedicated to helping disabled individuals and their families obtain the benefits they deserve. Clients choose us because:

✅ Experienced Social Security Disability Attorneys – Years of success handling SSDI and SSI cases.
✅ Restorative Justice Approach – We advocate for fair treatment and balanced legal solutions.
✅ Personalized Legal Support – Every case is unique, and we develop customized strategies for success.
✅ No Upfront Fees – We only get paid if you win your case.
✅ Proven Success Record – We have helped many clients win disability benefits after initial denials.

Our goal is to secure your financial stability and ensure you receive the support you need.

Contact IBARJI for a Free Social Security Disability Consultation

If you or a loved one is struggling to obtain Social Security Disability benefits, don’t face the system alone. Let IBARJI fight for your rights and secure the benefits you deserve.

📞 Call Us Today: +1 412-581-6739
📧 Email Us: info@ibarji.org

Let us help you navigate the SSDI and SSI process, appeal wrongful denials, and fight for your financial future. Schedule your free consultation today!