If you are looking for information about SSD benefits, you’ve likely come across advertisements for large 800 number services that promise to help you resolve your claim.

When helping people with their SSD claims, we provide services our clients actually need. By speaking with us about your case, we can determine how we can best help you. Below are just a few of the most common SSD issues we help clients address:

My claim was denied, what do I do?

• Many claimants are denied multiple times before they are successful in obtaining benefits. It is very important that you continue to pursue your claim. If you are initially denied, then you should apply for reconsideration. If you are denied reconsideration, then you should request a hearing with an administrative law judge (ALJ) in federal court. Typically, your best chance of obtaining benefits is in court before a Judge. Unfortunately due to the large back log of cases, it often takes many months for your hearing to be scheduled.

What happens at the hearing?

• At the hearing you will testify about the nature and extent of your disability, your past work, and your education. There is no jury present for your hearing. An administrative law judge will conduct the hearing which typically lasts about an hour. The hearings are rather informal and you will not be cross-examined by any lawyer for the government or the Social Security Administration. Some administrative law judges ask questions while others let your attorney ask all the questions. On occasion the administrative law judge may also ask a doctor or vocational expert to testify as well. If a doctor is asked to testify, they will typically do so by telephone. If requested by the administrative law judge, any vocational expert could testify in person at the hearing. You are also entitled to present witnesses at your hearing. Typically a family member or close friend could testify about their observations of your condition.

What if I’m over 50 years of age?

• The Social Security Administration gives special consideration to claimants who are over 50 years of age. In most cases, those who are over 50 will have a more difficult time acquiring the skills they need to resume or acquire employment. Instead of requiring these people to start all over, the SSA is often more inclined to grant SSD benefits. The SSA will review your work history, education and other criteria that may affect your ability to obtain and retain employment. We can review your case and offer advice regarding your over 50 SSD claim.

Why do I need a lawyer? How much do they cost?

• The fee for our office is simply 25 percent of any past benefits you may be entitled up to $6,000.00. You pay us nothing, all fees are paid to us out of back benefits we win for you directly by the Social Security Administration. This fee is standard for attorneys handling Social Security cases. If we do not win your case then you owe us nothing. You have many choices while choosing a Social Security Disability lawyer. You can choose an out of state 800 number or you can speak with Ferris Law today.

• Legal insurance plans accepted.