Connecticut Social Security Disability Lawyers

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides financial benefits to people who experience disabilities and hardships during their lifetimes, not just in retirement. Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits are based on prior work and contributions to the system.

If you have questions about applying for Social Security Disability benefits for the first time or have had your claim denied, an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer can help with this complex process. At The Dodd Law Firm, we have decades of experience providing assistance to clients throughout Connecticut with SSD claims. We also accept state and municipal disability retirement pension cases as well as private long-term disability claims.

Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.

Who Is Entitled to Social Security Disability Benefits?

The U.S. government administers the Social Security Disability program, which pays benefits to people who are unable to work due to a qualifying condition. According to the law, the condition must be one that is expected to last at least one year or result in your death.

When a person is approved for Social Security Disability benefits, their dependents may be approved as well. You can apply for SSD payments if you have worked and paid Social Security taxes for five of the last ten years. In most cases, you will need to go through a rigorous process requiring that you prove your eligibility for benefits.

What is the SSD Claims Process?

To apply for Social Security Disability benefits, file an application online or call the agency at (800) 772-1213. You will need to have all of your personal information available, such as your Social Security number, as well as the medical documentation of your disability.

What SSD Benefits Can I Receive?

The amount in benefits you can receive will depend on how much you paid into the system, subject to a maximum allowable by law. Benefits can range from about $300 per month to more than $2000 per month, and they are calculated by the SSA when you file your claim. If you are getting any other types of payments, such as workers’ compensation, this can reduce your payout.

What to Do If Your SSD Claim Has Been Denied

Unfortunately, a majority of initial Social Security Disability benefits claims are denied. Some of the common reasons for claim denial are:

• You didn’t present sufficient evidence of a covered disability.
• You didn’t follow through on recommended medical treatment.
• Your disability isn’t expected to last at least 12 months.
• You make too much money to qualify.

If your claim was denied for any reason and you believe that you are entitled to benefits, you have recourse. The SSA provides several levels of appeal for SSD claims.

1. File for Reconsideration

After receiving a denial, you have 60 days to request a reconsideration. The SSA will take a second look at your application to see if there was anything they missed during their initial review.

2. Request a Disability Hearing

If your claim still is not accepted, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). At this hearing, you will be permitted to present evidence and testimony from witnesses that support your claim.

3. Appear Before an Appeals Council

If the ALJ does not approve your SSD claim after the hearing, you have the option to file an appeal with the Appeals Council. The Appeals Council has the option to decide your case, refer it back to the ALJ with additional instructions, or deny your request.

4. Appeal to Federal District Court

The final level of appeal is at the federal district court level. You can take your case to court and argue why you should be awarded SSD benefits.

Many SSD claims are accepted at various levels of appeal, so it’s important to approach your case with a plan. At The Dodd Law Firm, our Social Security Disability lawyers will create a detailed strategy customized to your unique situation. We understand the importance of these benefits and want to ensure we are maximizing our opportunity to be of the greatest service to our clients.

Contact an Experienced Connecticut Social Security Disability Lawyer

While it’s not necessary to have a lawyer assist with filing a Social Security Disability application or a denial appeal, an experienced legal advocate can help you secure the benefits you need and deserve. The Dodd Law Firm doesn’t charge upfront for services related to Social Security Disability claims. You only pay us a fee if we are able to secure your benefits. For a free, no-obligation consultation, call 203-272-1883 or contact us online.