Oklahoma Social Security Disability Lawyer Defending Injury Victims' Rights
This may be your only opportunity for justice.
If you sustain a serious injury or illness and you cannot work for weeks or months at a time, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. The federal government created this program - sometimes known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) - to help people with long-term injuries and illnesses.
Do you need help with an SSD claim? Make sure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. Contact an experienced Oklahoma attorney who works tirelessly for injury victims and their families. Contact Lawter & Associates, PLLC. Our law firm has more than 40 years of experience handling complex SSD cases throughout Oklahoma.
Don't try to handle your SSD case on your own. Contact us and schedule a free case evaluation. Call our Oklahoma City office at (866) 584-1027 or our Tulsa office at (866) 584-1028. We're here to help you get your life back on track.
What are common Social Security Disability cases in Oklahoma?
There is a lengthy list of long-term illnesses or injuries that can make someone eligible for SSD benefits. But some injuries and illness are more common than others. Some of the most common Social Security Disability cases we handle involve:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Burn injuries
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
- Cancer
Whatever type of long-term injury or illness you're dealing with, contact us and discover what an experienced legal team can do for you. We thoroughly understand the law and know how to find the evidence you need to build a strong, legal case.
Benefits are often denied to those who try to navigate the process without an experienced Oklahoma attorney. With offices in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, our attorneys have years of experience helping people claim their Social Security Disability benefits.
How do I apply for Social Security Disability benefits?
The federal government’s official Social Security Administration website has a section explaining how the application process works. In general, your application will need to explain the exact nature of your injury, along with providing evidence in support of your application. This evidence can include proof of your injury (doctor’s bills, list of medical conditions, etc.) as well as proof of your employment history. You also need to provide evidence that your medical condition is expected to last at least 12 months or more.
This process might seem straightforward. However, if there any mistakes on your application or any step along the way in the application process, your request for benefits could be denied. Without these benefits, you may have a hard time paying your bills and getting the financial support and medical treatment you deserve for your long-term injury or illness. With so much at stake, that’s why many people decide to hire an attorney to help them apply for benefits.
Common application mistakes people make
When applying for Social Security Disability benefits, people often make mistakes that result in their application being denied by the Social Security Administration. These mistakes include:
- Not providing medical evidence in application.
- Wrong Social Security number listed on application.
- Form not filled out properly and missing important personal information.
- Form submitted after the applicable deadline.
- Income information not properly documented or different from official records.
There’s no room for error when it comes to applying for benefits. Experienced attorneys know this and can assist you with your application.
Why should I hire an Oklahoma Social Security Disability attorney?
You might think you don't need a lawyer. Your case might seem straightforward. Don't be so sure. Social Security Disability cases in Oklahoma can be extremely complicated. Even the slightest mistake on your application form could jeopardize the outcome of your case.
Protect your rights. Contact our law firm and learn more about what we can do for you. We have more than 40 years of experience handling such complicated cases. Put our knowledge to work for you.
Frequently asked questions about Social Security Disability:
- What is Social Security Disability (SSD)?
- What is the difference between Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
- When should I apply for SSD benefits?
- Can I work and obtain Social Security Disability benefits?
- What should I do if my SSD application is denied?
- Can I receive SSD benefits if I am not permanently disabled?
- Can I ever lose my Social Security Disability benefits?
- Can my SSD benefits be increased if my medical condition gets worse?
What is Social Security Disability (SSD)?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program administered by the Social Security Administration to pay benefits to individuals with a disability who meet medical and earnings criteria. Certain family members may also receive benefits. However, the system of paying benefits under SSDI in Oklahoma can be highly complex, and the paperwork involved can be difficult and confusing to all but an experienced Social Security lawyer.
What is the difference between Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income are both federal programs to provide assistance to people with disabilities available in Oklahoma. SSD benefits are paid to individuals and their families based on your earnings and the amount you paid in Social Security taxes. SSI is based on financial need and financed through taxes for those with little or no income.
When should I apply for SSD benefits?
Apply as soon as you believe you qualify for benefits under the Social Security's definition of disabled. To be eligible, you must be unable to be gainfully employed because of a physical or mental impairment that is expected to last at least 12 months or end in death. You do not have to wait until you have been disabled 12 months to apply for benefits. If your disability is expected to last at least 12 months, you may apply.
Can I work and obtain Social Security Disability benefits?
Yes, in some cases. Social Security defines "substantial gainful employment" as earnings of $1,260 per month in 2020. If your disability allows you to work and earn this much, you do not qualify for SSDI. However, if you are able to work, but your disability prevents you from earning at least $770 per month, you are still eligible to apply for benefits. If you have further questions seek the advice of an experienced SSDI lawyer at Lawter & Associates PLLC.
What should I do if my SSD application is denied?
If your application is denied, you should appeal the decision immediately, although you have 60 days to appeal your denial. If you fail to appeal within 60 days, you lose all right of appeal on that claim and must start the process over from the beginning. Filing an appeal is your best way to have your claim reconsidered, as a new claim will likely be rejected for the same reasons as the first. Immediately contact your Oklahoma City SSDI attorney or Tulsa Social Security lawyer and file an appeal if your application for Social Security benefits is rejected.
Can I receive SSD benefits if I am not permanently disabled?
Yes. You may receive benefits if your disability will last at least one year and prevents you from obtaining substantial gainful employment.
Can I ever lose my Social Security Disability benefits?
All SSDI cases are subject to review. If your review finds that your medical records and physical examination indicates that your condition has improved to the point where you can obtain substantial gainful employment, your benefits will be stopped. You may appeal the decision, and your benefits will continue throughout the appeal process. However, if you lose the appeal, you must repay the benefits received during the appeal.
Can my SSD benefits be increased if my medical condition gets worse?
Your benefit is a set amount based on your earnings record, and if your application is approved, you receive the full benefit. Therefore, your benefit will not increase, although your benefits can increase due to a cost-of-living adjustment.
Don't take chances with your future. Take action. Contact our law firm and learn more about your legal options. Call our Oklahoma City office at (866) 584-1027 or our Tulsa office at (866) 584-1028 and schedule an appointment today.
Lawter & Associates, PLLC
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Phone: (405) 525-4131
Lawter & Associates, PLLC
Tulsa, OK 74136
Phone: (918) 496-9577