Get Answers to Your Commonly Asked Questions from a Social Security Disability Attorney
An experienced social security disability attorney fields many questions from clients on a daily basis. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker we have compiled some of the questions we hear most often to help you better understand your options. Please do not hesitate to call us at 866-536-5788 for a free legal evaluation if you are having issues that require a Social Security Disability Attorney in Los Angeles CA.
How Long Does It Usually Take to Get Approved?
The short answer is that it can take anywhere from 90 days to years. It largely depends on the specifics of each individual case and whether the initial application for benefits is approved or denied. If benefits are denied and an appeal must be filed, then the process can last years. The good news is that working with a Social Security disability attorney in Los Angeles CA can help make your case stronger.
How Much Monthly Income Will I Receive from Social Security?
This depends on the type of Social Security disability benefit you are applying for, SSDI or SSI. SSDI is based on your work earnings that had Social Security taxes withheld. The average SSDI benefit is $1,197 and the maximum you can receive is $2,788. Social Security will not calculate this benefit amount unless you are found disabled under Social Security’s rules. In the past, Social Security would send statements with monthly benefit estimates. More recently, Social Security has stopped sending these statements due to budget constraints.
On the other hand, SSI benefit rates are calculated by the Federal Government each year and supplemented by the State of California. SSI benefits are also subject to offsets for other income you may have. For 2019, the maximum SSI benefit in California is $931.72 ($988.23 if disability is due to blindness). When you contact an SSDI attorney in Los Angeles CA, we can help determine which benefits, SSI or SSDI, you may qualify for.
Can I Work and Still Obtain or Remain on Social Security Disability?
Possibly, but there are limits. You are only eligible for benefits if you are unable to work and earn what is considered substantial gainful activity by Social Security. For 2019, substantial gainful activity is set at $1,220 per month in pre-tax earnings. However, any work activity, even minimal part-time work, can impact a claim for Social Security disability. Be sure to consult with your Social Security Disability attorney in Los Angeles CA to find out what your specific options are.
Do I Have to Attend the Medical Evaluation That Social Security Set Up?
Medical evaluations are not always required. If they are scheduled, then it means SSA is not sure there is enough medical evidence to support the claim. While they will not technically deny a claim if you do not attend your medical evaluation, they are less likely to approve it if you skip the appointment. The fact that SSA has requested the medical evaluation means they do not believe you have enough evidence without it and you should talk to a Social Security Disability Attorney in Los Angeles CA to find out what your best option is.
Call Now to Speak with an Experienced SSDI Attorney in Los Angeles CA
If you have questions about getting approval for Social Security, if you have been denied, or if you simply want to talk to an attorney about your options then we recommend contacting The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 866-536-5788 today. We are standing by to help you through this potentially complex process.
