At Culbertson Law Group, we help clients solve Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) questions daily. Read on to discover some of our clients’ most frequently asked questions (FAQs), and find the answer from a Leesburg Social Security Federal Court attorney.
A Leesburg Social Security Federal Court Attorney Answers Your FAQs
There are many questions about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Today, one of our experienced Leesburg Social Security Federal Court attorneys will help you get the answers and resources you need.
What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
Title II of the Social Security Act authorizes SSDI benefits. SSDI provides benefits to individuals who are entirely or partially blind. It also provides benefits for applicants that qualify as disabled based on the Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book guidelines.
Individuals are considered “insured” through their workers’ contributions to the Social Security trust fund. This contribution is through personal (or spousal) income earnings as required by the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). Dependants may also be eligible for benefits from the Federal program.
Additionally, applicants awarded Social Security Disability benefits will become eligible to receive Medicare two years after the first payment month.
What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
On the other hand, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides cash benefits to individuals who are blind, disabled, and 65 years of age or older with limited resources and income. Florida residents who have applied for and received SSI benefits are eligible for Medicaid without filing an additional Medicaid application.
When Should I Get Legal Help For Filing My SSDI or SSI claim?
Enlisting the help of a Leesburg Social Security Federal Court attorney can help applicants at all points of the benefits claim process. While insulating yourself with legal representation does not automatically ensure awarded benefits, it does increase the likelihood of being approved for benefits in the initial filing process and receiving benefits sooner.
An SSDI and SSI attorney can assist applicants during the initial filing process and in the complicated and nuanced appeals process, if necessary. During the appeals process, an attorney can provide legal representation during:
- Reconsideration
- Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge
- Review by an Appeals Council
- Federal Court Review
Are There Deadlines For Filing An Action To Federal Court?
An applicant must file an action in U.S. District Court within 60 days of receiving a notice from the Appeals Council. The SSA considers a notice to be received by the applicant 5 days after the date printed on the document.
If an individual misses the appeals notice deadline, they must provide proper evidence of “good cause.” The applicant will likely have to begin the process again if the SSA determines that a missed appeals deadline occurred for reasons not considered “good cause.”
Is Legal Representation Required If I Appeal To Federal Court?
Legal representation in Federal Court is not required but is often a sound choice. The SSA does not assist applicants in Federal Court review. Applicants must follow the court rules and regulations closely to ensure their appeals claim does not get dismissed. Legal representation can help individuals navigate the rigorous Federal Court appeals process.
Do You Have More SSDI Or SSI Questions?
If you have more questions, contact Culbertson Law Group today. Let our law office know your SSDI and SSI questions, and our team of attorneys will help you find the correct answers.