SSDI Benefits Attorney in Raleigh, North Carolina 

Are you struggling to get the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits you deserve? At Lloyd King Law Firm, I understand how challenging and frustrating this process can be. I will help you through every step, ensuring you get the support you need. 

Understanding SSDI Benefits

SSDI benefits are meant to help individuals who cannot work due to a severe disability. These benefits can provide financial relief and peace of mind during a difficult time. 

Who Qualifies for SSDI?

To qualify for SSDI, you must: 

• Have a medical condition that prevents you from working 

• Have worked in jobs covered by Social Security 

• Have enough work credits based on your age 

• Have a disability that is expected to last at least one year or result in death 

• Not be engaged in substantial gainful activity (SGA), meaning you are not earning above a certain amount due to your disability 

• Be under the age of 65 at the time of applying for benefits 

How to Apply for SSDI

Applying for SSDI can be a complex process. Here are the key steps involved: 

• Gather necessary documents: This includes your medical records, work history, and any other relevant documents. 

• Complete the application: You can apply online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. 

• Submit medical evidence: Provide detailed medical evidence to support your claim. 

• Wait for a decision: The Social Security Administration (SSA) will review your application and make a decision. 

• Seek legal assistance: Consider consulting with an attorney who specializes in Social Security cases to strengthen your application and overcome hurdles. 

• Follow up on your application: Regularly check the status of your application and promptly respond to any requests for additional information or documentation from the SSA. 

• Prepare for an appeal: If your initial application is denied, be ready to file an appeal. The appeals process includes several stages, such as reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, and review by the Appeals Council if necessary. 

Why SSDI Claims Get Denied

Many SSDI claims are denied initially. So if this happened to you, please do not lost hope. You still have options, and I'm here to help you seek the insurance benefits you need.

Common reasons for denials include: 

• Lack of sufficient medical evidence. 

• Failure to follow prescribed treatments. 

• Income exceeding the allowable limit. 

• Previous denials without new evidence.

• Failure to adhere to treatment plans set forth by healthcare providers. 

• Insufficient work credits or lack of recent work history. 

• Missing or incomplete documentation. 

• The disability is not expected to last at least one year or result in death. 

• The claimant can still perform a significant number of job functions despite the disability. 

• Discrepancies or inconsistencies in the information provided. 

• Not responding timely to requests for additional information or to attend consultative medical examinations arranged by the SSA. 

SSDI Laws in North Carolina

North Carolina has certain laws and regulations that can impact your SSDI claim. Understanding these can improve your chances of approval. 

Work Credits  

Work credits are crucial for SSDI eligibility. In North Carolina, you earn work credits based on your annual wages. The amount needed varies with age: 

• Under 24: 6 credits in the three years before becoming disabled. 

• 24 to 31: Credits for half the time between age 21 and the time you became disabled. 

• Over 31: 20 credits in the 10 years before becoming disabled. 

Medical Standards

North Carolina follows federal guidelines for determining medical eligibility. Your condition must meet or equal one of the listings in SSA's "Blue Book." This book outlines specific criteria for various disabilities, such as physical impairments, cognitive disorders, sensory disabilities, and mental health conditions. 

Appeals Process

If your claim is denied, North Carolina allows you to appeal the decision. The appeals process includes: 

• Reconsideration: A new review of your claim by someone who did not participate in the first decision. 

• Hearing by an administrative law judge: You can present your case to a judge. 

• Review by the appeals council: If the judge denies your claim, you can request a review. 

• Federal court review: If all else fails, you can file a lawsuit in federal court. 

• Filing new evidence: Throughout the appeals process, you can provide new medical evidence or documentation that supports your claim, which might significantly impact the decision on your case. 

After an eight-year tenure as a Disability Judge for the Social Security Administration in Raleigh, North Carolina, I transitioned to private practice, using my knowledge and experience to assist individuals seeking Social Security disability benefits. With over 40 years of legal experience, I am committed to helping you through the legal process and obtain the benefits you are entitled to.