Commonly Asked Questions About SSD

It is not uncommon to have questions regarding your situation and how working with an attorney can benefit your case. In this section, we have compiled some of the most commonly asked questions regarding Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. After reading through this section, if you find that you still have questions or concerns about your situation, do not hesitate to contact a Reading and Pottstown SSD attorney from Dolan Ray Law, LLC right away!

I have applied for disability benefits and have been denied. Should I just give up?
Absolutely not! Approval ratings for disability benefits vary greatly between the initial claim level, administered by the state, and the hearing level, which is administered by the federal government. In the event that you are denied benefits, you should contact our firm immediately in order for our attorneys to evaluate your claim and potentially pursue an appeal on your behalf.

I have not worked for many years due to my disability but I have never applied for disability benefits. Is it too late to apply for benefits?
Probably not. Many claims can be backdated to the date that you first became disabled. Our attorneys can help obtain reports and opinions from your medical providers to support your date of onset of disability. Alternatively, the Social Security Administration offers another disability program, known as Supplemental Security Income, for individuals who suffer from disabling conditions but do not have the requisite work history needed to qualify for traditional SSD benefits. You should contact our attorneys to find out which program you qualify for; we can help you file your application.

I have been out of work for some time now, have no income, and can barely afford my current bills. How can I afford an attorney to represent me on my disability claim?
You can. Our attorneys work on a contingency-fee basis. This means that we do not get paid unless we win your case for you. Furthermore, you will receive 100% of all future Social Security payments. Our fee is merely 25% of any past-due benefits paid directly to us by the Social Security Administration.

How long will it take for me to receive benefits if I win my claim?
Unfortunately, the Social Security disability process is a long one. It takes on average about 120 days for a decision to be made on an initial application. If an appeal is filed, it takes approximately 10 - 14 months from the date of appeal to get to a hearing before an administrative law judge. Our attorneys work to ensure that your claim is handled in an expeditious matter so that your case is heard as soon as possible.

Still have questions? Call our Reading, Pottstown and Allentown lawyers for answers.

If you still are seeking answers for questions that you have regarding your eligibility to file for Social Security benefits, do not hesitate to complete a case evaluation form today and schedule a consultation with Dolan Ray Law, LLC right away.