Living with a disability can turn daily life into a continuous challenge. At Ortega Disability Group, we understand the hardships that come with disabling conditions. If you’re unable to work due to an illness or injury, this can leave you feeling uncertain about the future. You may be unable to pay your bills, support your family, or receive appropriate medical care for your disability.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits offer a way for individuals to gain financial support when they can’t work. However, while SSDI can be crucial for many people, seeking benefits is often difficult. Navigating the claims process can be complicated, especially given the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) strict eligibility requirements.
It’s a fact that most initial applications are denied by the SSA. Working with an experienced Orange County Social Security Disability attorney can be the key to obtaining benefits.
When you contact Ortega Disability Group, you’ll receive help from a law firm that understands the SSA’s guidelines and eligibility criteria. If you need help applying for Social Security Disability benefits in Orange County, request a free consultation today. We’re here to fight for your rights and help you get the financial assistance you need.
Understanding SSDI in Orange County, CA
Social Security Disability Insurance provides financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. However, qualifying for these benefits is no small feat. The SSA has strict criteria for what constitutes a disability and who is eligible to receive SSDI benefits.
Eligibility Requirements and the Blue Book
Claimants must meet specific medical and non-medical criteria to qualify for SSDI.
When reviewing claims, the SSA references the Blue Book, which lists qualifying conditions, to determine medical eligibility. Therefore, a claimant’s disability must be in the Blue Book to qualify for SSDI. If it isn’t listed, the claimant must prove their condition equals a qualifying impairment in severity.
In the event a claimant’s condition does not meet or equal a Blue Book listing, they may still be eligible for SSDI. Individuals with unlisted disabilities that prevent them from working can qualify for benefits through a medical-vocational allowance.
To receive a medical-vocational allowance, the SSA determines a claimant’s ability to work using a residual functional capacity (RFC) assessment.
The SSA considers the severity of the claimant’s disability, as well as age, education, and work experience when deciding whether they’re eligible for a medical-vocational allowance.
Additionally, to qualify for SSDI, a claimant must also meet the general eligibility requirements. These include:
- Their disability is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- Their disability prevents them from engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
- They have contributed to Social Security by working and paying payroll taxes over time, thereby earning work credits
Supportive Evidence
A successful SSDI claim includes substantial supportive evidence. Medical evidence may include test results, treatment records, doctor’s assessments illustrating the severity and duration of a disability, etc.
Non-medical evidence may include examples of how an impairment impacts a claimant’s daily life and ability to work.
Gathering and presenting this evidence is a crucial part of the application process. Missing or inadequate documentation and medical records can lead to a denied claim.
How Ortega Disability Group Can Help
Filing for SSDI benefits is a complicated, tedious process. As dedicated Social Security Disability attorneys in Orange County, Ortega Disability Group is here to simplify the process. Our experienced team understands the ins and outs of Social Security Disability claims and appeals.
When you work with our law firm, you can depend on us in numerous ways:
- We are highly familiar with the claims process. We demystify the complexities of filing for SSDI, ensuring you understand each step along the way.
- We help compile all necessary documentation and medical evidence, ensuring your claim is complete and accurate.
- If your initial claim has been denied, we’ll guide you through the appeals process. We will go over your application carefully to identify any discrepancies. This allows us to improve your claim and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Ortega Disability Group possesses the knowledge, skills, and experience you need when you’re applying for disability benefits. Our goal is to help you secure the financial assistance you deserve, no matter how complicated your case may seem.
Contact Our Social Security Disability Lawyers
If you’re struggling with a disability and unsure of how to file a claim, Ortega Disability Group can help. As your trusted Orange County disability attorneys, we’re committed to providing professional, compassionate support to our clients.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in navigating the disability claims process. We offer free consultations and represent individuals seeking SSDI and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in Orange County.
