Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are critical federal benefit programs designed to provide financial support to disabled Americans who cannot work due to their medical conditions. Unfortunately, navigating the Social Security Administration's complex application and appeals process can be overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with a serious disability.
At Schuster Law, our experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorneys have helped countless disabled individuals secure the benefits they deserve. We understand the lengthy and complicated SSA process, and we're here to guide you through every step - from your initial application to appeals and hearings following benefit denials.
Call (610) 892-9200 for a free consultation with experienced Pennsylvania Social Security Disability lawyers.
We understand that disabilities don't wait for business hours, and neither do financial hardships. Our Social Security Disability attorneys are available around the clock to provide immediate guidance and support when you need it most. Whether you're filing your first application or facing a benefit denial, we're here to help you understand your rights and options.
Social Security Disability (SSD) is a federal program under the Social Security Act that provides monthly payments and benefits to Americans who are disabled and cannot work due to their medical conditions. The program includes two main benefit types:
SSDI provides benefits to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to a qualifying disability. Benefits are based on your work history and earnings record.
SSI provides benefits to disabled individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. This needs-based program helps cover basic living expenses for disabled adults and children.
Our Pennsylvania Social Security Disability attorneys have successfully helped clients with a wide range of disabling conditions, including:
These are just examples - many other medical conditions may qualify for disability benefits.
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet specific criteria established by the SSA:
You must prove that you are medically disabled according to SSA standards. The SSA publishes a "Blue Book" (Listing of Impairments) that contains medical conditions considered automatically disabling. If your condition matches a Blue Book listing or is equally limiting, you may qualify for benefits.
Your medical condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Temporary disabilities typically do not qualify for Social Security benefits.
For SSDI benefits, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a specific period, typically 20 out of the last 40 quarters (5 out of the last 10 years). Younger applicants may qualify with fewer work credits.
You must be unable to perform substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to your disability. In 2024, SGA is defined as earning more than $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals.
The SSA evaluates whether your disability prevents you from performing your previous work or any other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy.
Statistics show that approximately 65% of initial Social Security Disability applications are denied. Common reasons for denials include:
This is why having experienced Social Security Disability representation is crucial from the beginning.
Our attorneys understand the complex rules, regulations, and procedures that govern Social Security Disability claims. We know what evidence is needed and how to present your case effectively.
We work with your doctors and medical providers to obtain comprehensive medical records and documentation that supports your disability claim.
We ensure your application is complete, accurate, and submitted with all necessary supporting documentation to maximize your chances of approval.
If your claim is denied, we handle the appeals process and represent you at administrative hearings before Social Security judges.
We work on a contingency fee basis - you pay no attorney fees unless we win your case. Our fees are regulated by federal law and paid only from back benefits awarded.
We help you complete and submit your initial disability application with all required documentation and medical evidence.
If your initial application is denied, we file a request for reconsideration, which involves a complete review of your case by different SSA personnel.
If reconsideration is denied, we request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is often where cases are won, and having attorney representation is crucial.
If the ALJ denies your claim, we can appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council for review of the decision.
As a final step, we can file a lawsuit in federal court if all administrative appeals are unsuccessful.
To process your disability claim efficiently, gather the following information:
Yes, it's possible to receive both benefits simultaneously. However, federal law limits the total amount you can receive from both programs combined. The SSA may reduce your disability benefits if the combined payments exceed 80% of your average earnings before you became disabled.
The SSA encourages disability beneficiaries to attempt to return to work through the Trial Work Period (TWP) program. During your TWP, you can work and earn more than $1,050 per month (2024 amount) for up to 9 months without losing your benefits. This allows you to test your ability to work without immediately losing disability benefits.
The timeline varies significantly depending on several factors:
Working with experienced attorneys can help expedite the process by ensuring applications are complete and accurate from the start.
Back pay (also called past-due benefits) covers the months you were eligible for benefits but didn't receive them due to processing delays. Back pay is calculated from your established onset date of disability, minus a five-month waiting period for SSDI benefits.
SSDI benefits are based on your lifetime average earnings before becoming disabled. The average SSDI payment in 2024 is approximately $1,537 per month, but individual amounts vary.
SSI benefits provide a standard federal payment of $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 for couples (2024 amounts), though some states provide additional supplements.
Don't give up if your initial application is denied. With proper legal representation, many denied claims are eventually approved through the appeals process. We handle all aspects of your appeal and fight for the benefits you deserve.
Our fees are regulated by federal law and paid only from back benefits if we win your case. We charge no upfront fees, and you pay nothing unless we successfully obtain benefits for you. The maximum attorney fee is 25% of back benefits or $7,200, whichever is less.
Appeals must be filed within 60 days of receiving a denial notice. This deadline is strictly enforced, and missing it can permanently bar your right to appeal. Contact Schuster Law immediately if you receive a denial to ensure your appeal is filed on time.
Strong medical evidence is crucial for Social Security Disability approval. Our attorneys help ensure your medical records include:
Our attorneys represent clients at SSA offices throughout Pennsylvania, including locations in:
We represent clients at Administrative Law Judge hearings held at:
We have successfully helped hundreds of disabled Pennsylvanians secure the Social Security benefits they deserve, including back payments totaling thousands of dollars.
We handle every aspect of your disability claim, from initial applications through federal court appeals if necessary.
You pay no attorney fees unless we win your case. Initial consultations are always free and confidential.
Unlike large disability firms, we provide individual attention and direct access to experienced attorneys throughout your case.
Our deep understanding of Pennsylvania SSA offices, Administrative Law Judges, and local medical providers gives our clients significant advantages.
If you're unable to work due to a disability, don't navigate the complex Social Security system alone. Contact Schuster Law today for a free, confidential consultation with experienced Pennsylvania Social Security Disability attorneys.
We'll help you understand:
Remember: You pay no attorney fees unless we win your case.
Focus on your health - let our experienced Social Security Disability team handle the legal complexities and fight for the benefits you deserve.
To learn more about related cases such as premises liability claims in PA, see here.
A client of Schuster Law
My husband and I were in a car accident and our car got t-boned. Andrew Valentin was the lawyer we chose to represent us. Andrew fought on our behalf with the other party's insurance company, making sure everything was made right. Between regular check-ins on us and follow through on the case, Andrew made sure we were well taken care of.
Laura VM
A Car Accident Client of Schuster Law
