Understanding SSD and SSI Benefits
When a disability keeps you from working, it affects your whole life. Many people in Grundy County struggle to pay bills and support their families while waiting for disability benefits.
The Social Security Disability system provides financial support to people who can’t work due to physical or mental health conditions. However, the application process can be overwhelming, with strict requirements and complicated procedures. Working with an experienced SSI attorney can make a major difference in getting your benefits approved faster.
Types of Qualifying Impairments
Our Social Security Disability lawyers have helped clients in Grundy County with many different medical conditions secure benefits. The Social Security Administration recognizes various physical and mental impairments that may qualify you for benefits such as:
- Chronic pain conditions
- Back injuries and spinal disorders
- Heart disease and cardiovascular problems
- Respiratory illnesses
- Clinical depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar disorder
- And More
Even if your condition isn’t listed here, you may still qualify for benefits. Learn more about the types of physical and mental impairments we have represented.
How We Can Help With Your Case
Our Grundy County lawyers provide ongoing support throughout your case:
- Evaluating your eligibility for SSD or SSI benefits
- Gathering and organizing necessary medical evidence
- Filing initial applications and appeals
- Representing you at administrative hearings
- Handling all communication with the Social Security Administration
The Application and Appeal Process
Most Grundy County residents find the Social Security Disability application confusing and time-consuming. At Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, our lawyers help make this process clearer. Here’s what the application and appeal process typically looks like:
The Application Process
The first step is proving you meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. We help gather the right medical evidence and work history to support your claim. This includes:
- Getting detailed reports from your doctors
- Collecting medical test results and records
- Documenting how your condition affects daily activities
- Proving your work history and income
Most initial applications take 3-5 months before a decision is made. Unfortunately, the SSA denies many first-time applications, even for people who deserve benefits.
The Appeal Process
If Social Security denies your claim, our experienced SSI attorney can appeal. Here’s what happens next:
Reconsideration (First Appeal)
- We file this appeal within 60 days of your denial
- A different person reviews your entire case
- We can add new medical evidence
This step usually takes around 3-4 months.
Administrative Hearing
If the reconsideration is denied, we request a hearing with a judge. During this important step:
- You’ll meet with a judge and share your story
- We’ll present updated medical evidence
- Medical and job experts may testify
- Your lawyer will why you qualify for benefits
This typically happens 6-12 months after requesting the hearing.
Appeals Council
If needed, we can take your case to the Appeals Council, where they review the judge’s decision for legal errors. While this can take several months, it’s often worth the wait if we believe the judge made a mistake on your case.
Why Having an SSI Attorney in Grundy County Matters
Having an SSI attorney who knows Grundy County makes a significant difference. We work closely with local doctors, job specialists, and judges in Grundy County. These connections help us build better cases and avoid common problems.
Why Choose Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates
Our Grundy County legal team stands out because of our:
- Over 100 years of combined experience serving Chicagoland
- Personal attention to each case
- No money upfront or hourly fees
- Regular case updates
- Local law offices
- Virtual consultation offerings through Microsoft Teams and Zoom
When you work with Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, you’ll receive expert legal services that make securing disability benefits hassle-free.
