If you have become disabled and are no longer able to perform your job – or adapt to any other meaningful form of employment – you could be entitled to benefits through the federal government’s Social Security disability program.
If your disability prevents you from working, Just Call Joye and get our South Carolina Social Security disability attorneys fighting for you. You can reach us at (888) 324-3100 or fill out an online form for a free case review.
The proven South Carolina SSD attorneys at Joye Law Firm can help you through the bureaucratic maze you must navigate to get the benefits you deserve. Respect, compassion, consideration and care are what you will receive from our lawyers and staff from your first call until your claim is resolved. Since 1968 we have helped injured people like you recover not just the money they are entitled to, but also their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina Social Security Disability
What sort of disabilities qualify for Social Security disability benefits?
You must be totally disabled to receive Social Security disability benefits, meaning that you have a condition that prevents you from performing any substantial gainful work. The Social Security Administration sets these requirements for receiving SSD benefits: “You cannot do work that you did before; We decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s); and Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.” In addition to being disabled, you also must have paid into the Social Security system for a certain period of time. Generally speaking, you will qualify if you have paid into the system for 40 quarters, 20 of which were in the last 10 years before you became disabled.
Can a debilitating mental illness entitle me to Social Security disability benefits?
Yes, a mental illness that prevents you from performing your job or adjusting to other work can qualify you for SSD. Depression, panic attacks (anxiety), bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are some of the more common forms of mental illness that serve as the basis of a Social Security disability claim. Expect closer scrutiny of your mental illness disability claim and be prepared to show solid medical evidence that your condition is disabling.
If my doctor says I’m disabled, is that enough to entitle me to benefits?
No, it’s not enough. Many people make the mistake of thinking that they will be able to receive automatic Social Security disability benefits simply because their doctor says they have a condition that prevents them from working. The Social Security Administration makes its own assessment of your condition and decides whether you are disabled under its criteria.
At what point should I apply for Social Security disability benefits?
Because the approval process is often slow, you should file for benefits as soon as possible. Most people are eligible to file an application on the day after they become disabled and stop working. There is no mandatory waiting period for filing for SSD benefits.
How do I apply for Social Security disability benefits?
You can apply for benefits online at www.socialsecurity.gov, by calling the Social Security Administration or by going to your local Social Security office. When filing your application, you will need to provide certain information, including:
- Your Social Security number and proof of your age;
- Names, addresses and phone numbers of doctors, caseworkers, hospitals and clinics that took care of you and the dates of your visits;
- Names and dosages of all the medications you are taking;
- Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics and caseworkers that you already have in your possession;
- Laboratory and test results;
- A summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did; and
- Your most recent W-2 form or, if you were self-employed, a copy of your federal tax return.
After I’ve applied, how long does it take for the Social Security Administration to process my application?
As with any bureaucratic process, applying for Social Security disability benefits requires patience. According to the Social Security Administration, it takes on average 3-5 months to process a new application. If your initial application is denied, you will then need to seek a reconsideration of your claim and perhaps request a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. Each of those steps involves more waiting, particularly if you need a hearing. The average wait time for a hearing is about 540 days, according to the National Organization of Social Security Claims Representatives. The good news is that, once your claim is approved, you are entitled to back payment of benefits from the day your disability began.
Do I need a lawyer to help me pursue my Social Security disability claim?
You are not required to have an attorney to pursue an SSD claim. However, it is highly advisable to have legal counsel, particularly if your initial claim is denied. The appeals process can be tricky and is riddled with deadlines. It’s also crucial to have a skilled advocate by your side to prepare your case both in terms of the medical evidence and your vocational abilities.
More Questions? Contact Joye’s Social Security Disability Lawyers Today
If you’re disabled and filing for Social Security disability benefits, you can count on the committed attorneys at the Joye Law Firm to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Just call Joye at (888) 324-3100 or fill out our free online case evaluation form.
The Joye Law Firm has offices in Charleston and Myrtle Beach. Our lawyers can handle cases across South Carolina, including Florence, Richland County, Orangeburg, Columbia, Horry County (including Conway and North Myrtle Beach), North Charleston, Mount Pleasant and Summerville.
