Last updated 1 year ago
The social security program is an incredibly important avenue for elderly and disabled persons to pay for living expenses. However, many people who deserve social security benefits are denied payments for a wide variety of reasons.
As this video explains, fighting for social security benefits after being initially denied can take months or years. Hiring a social security attorney to guide you through the SSI application process can help ensure you get your benefits as soon as possible.
For help getting your SSI benefits, contact Todd M. Berk, Esq. Our social security attorneys will work with you every step of the way throughout the SSI application and appeals process. Call (215) 687-4432 today.
Last updated 1 year ago
If you’re suffering from a debilitating injury or ailment of some kind, you may be eligible to receive social security benefits. In addition to disabilities you would expect to be covered by social security insurance (SSI), there are a number of unexpected disabilities that will qualify you for coverage. Here are five types of disabilities that qualify you for SSI benefits.
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
There are a number of different kinds of musculoskeletal ailments that are covered under SSI. Osteoarthritis, vertebral fractures, upper extremity fractures, soft tissue injuries like burns, and disorders affecting your joints may qualify you for social security insurance benefits.
Mental disorders that affect your ability to work are covered through SSI benefits. These includes autism, developmental disorders, anxiety disorders, mental retardation, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, organic mental disorders such as bipolar or depression, and certain personality disorders. These illnesses must be officially documented by a medical professional before your application for SSI benefits are submitted.
Certain serious skin disorders may also qualify you for social security benefits. People suffering from erodemra pigmentosum, bullous disease, chronic skin infections, dermatitis, and ichthyosis are typically eligible for social security benefits.
People with chronic respiratory illnesses such as cystic fibrosis, pneuconiosis, bronchiectasis, asthma, and chronic pulmonary insufficiency are also eligible for social security benefits. Sleep-related breathing disorders and recent lung transplant recipients are also covered.
Recently, victims of endocrine disorders also became eligible for social security benefits. These disorders include pituitary gland disorders, thyroid disorders, hypo- and hyperglycemia, and adrenaline disorders.
If you have one of these illnesses, hire a skilled social security attorney to help you get the social security coverage you deserve. Contact Todd M. Berk, Esq. Our attorneys are licensed, insured, bonded, and have extensive experience in helping clients like you get the social security benefits they are entitled to. Call (215) 687-4432.
Last updated 1 year ago
Whether you’ve already been denied a social security benefit claim or are just beginning a social security application, having an attorney by your side can help. The Social Security Administration denies countless applications every single year, even though they qualify to receive SSI benefits. Working with a social security attorney can help you get the benefits you need as soon as possible. Here are some of the things you should prepare for when you meet with your Philadelphia-area social security attorney for the first time.
1. Medical Records
Having medical documentation of your disability or injury is absolutely essential to filing your social security or disability claim. Without proper medical documentation of condition, there’s really no way to successfully make a claim or appeal. Contact your attorney ahead of time to clarify what types of documentation you’ll need to have with you.
2. Social Security Paperwork
If you’ve filed for SSI before but were rejected, bring all of your paperwork regarding the SSI claim denial to your first meeting. Your attorney will use your application to determine why you may have been denied, and how to pursue an appeal of your SSI denial. Without proper documentation of previous appeals, it will be impossible for your attorney to begin the appeals process.
3. Establish Realistic Expectations
Finally, remember that every social security case is different, so being successful in achieving your maximum benefit requires setting realistic expectations about your right to benefits. While this is difficult, remember that your social security attorney will always try their best to get you the SSI benefits you deserve.
To meet with a knowledgeable and compassionate social security attorney, contact Todd Berk, Esq. Our practice specializes in providing expert legal counsel in the Philadelphia area for clients applying for social security insurance benefits, auto accidents personal injury and more. Call (215) 687-4432 to schedule your consultation today.
Last updated 1 year ago
For over 70 years, the Social Security Administration has sought to assist those in need. Generally, the SSA has succeeded in its goal, yet benefits are still notoriously difficult to obtain if you are unfamiliar with the filing process. Here are a few of the most common problems encountered when filing for Social Security benefits:
The process of applying for Social Security benefits is long and difficult to manage by yourself. You will often need to collect important documents, such as your most recent tax return, your birth certificate, and sometimes your marriage certificate. In addition, certain items on the application are strangely worded, adding further confusion. If you have questions at any point during the application process, then it’s always a good idea to contact a social security disability lawyer.
Since the Social Security Administration is a public institution, it often takes months to process each Social Security claim. The process can become even more drawn out if you make a mistake on your application, leaving you without precious benefits for several more weeks or months. When you hire a skilled social security lawyer, you have a better chance of getting it right the first time.
Oftentimes when applicants get denied benefits, they tend to give up; however, the Social Security Administration only accepts about 30% of first-time applications in an effort to ward off fraud. If you get denied once, twice, or even more, then an experienced social security lawyer can help you collect evidence for an appeal.
If you’re looking for help navigating the notoriously difficult Social Security application process, then contact Todd M. Berk, Esq of Philadelphia. For over 30 years, Mr. Berk has worked tirelessly to help those who need it most get the benefits they require to live a comfortable life. Call (215) 687-4432 today and he will do the same for you.
Last updated 1 year ago
We all encounter hard times in our lives. While most problems are overcome with patience, a major injury can be a serious setback. Luckily, the Social Security Administration distributes disability benefits to those who are injured and unable to take care of themselves—yet the application process is notoriously difficult. Here are a few tips to remember when filing for disability benefits:
Since the application process often takes several months, it’s important to file your disability claim as soon as you are injured. Even if you have some money saved up, it may not be enough to support you in the long run.
As you can imagine, there are many who try to scam the Social Security Administration. In order to avoid getting grouped in with the fraudulent cases, you should always be completely honest, no matter how reluctant you are to share the truth.
- Double-Check for Mistakes
If you make any mistakes on your application, then you could be set back weeks or even months. To speed the process along, it’s crucial that you double- and triple-check your applications for any errors.
- Don’t Let a Denial Dissuade You
It’s always hard to deal with being denied something you truly need. In the case of disability benefits, however, it’s important that you keep trying. Most claims aren’t accepted the first time around—if you have a legitimate claim, then you’ll get your benefits eventually.
Many things can go wrong with the disability application process. For expert help every step of the way, it’s a good idea to hire an experienced Social Security lawyer. An attorney will be able to spot and fix any errors during the initial application and help you appeal should you get denied.
If you’re currently in dire need of disability benefits, then contact the law office of Todd M. Berk, Esq in Philadelphia. Todd M. Berk is happy to work closely with you and address any of your concerns during the difficult application process. Call (215) 687-4432 to set up a free consultation with one of Philadelphia's most sought after social security attorneys.
