If you’re thinking of applying for Social Security Disability, it’s probably not because you want to; it’s because you have to. When you’re in that type of situation, it’s important that you find a Disability Lawyer local to Andover who takes the time to guide you through the situation. At Marcotte Law Firm, our SSD Attorneys take pride in that when you call our offices, you speak to a lawyer, not a receptionist. When you come in to meet with us, you meet with a local lawyer in Andover, not a paralegal. It’s this personal approach that gives us the edge in making sure that your disability claim is approved.
Types of DisabilitiesThe Social Security Administration (“SSA”) does not discriminate; you qualify for Social Security Disability if you are disabled and unable to work. The SSA understands that there are a wide array of disabilities that can keep people from working, and everyone’s situation is different.
On one hand, there are many physical disabilities that keep people from working. This includes orthopedic injuries such as back, knee, or shoulder problems. It also includes limitations that stem from heart issues, lung problems, fibromyalgia, or other physical disabilities. On the other hand, there are many mental disabilities that keep people from working. This includes conditions such as ADD, ADHD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (“PTSD”), Anxiety, and Depression.
SSDI vs. SSIThe Social Security Disability program is actually two different programs that are usually discussed interchangeably. But while some aspects of the programs are the same, other parts are quite different. These two programs are Social Security Disability Insurance (“SSDI”) and Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”).
These programs are both available to people with disabilities. Though there are certain excepts for children and spouses, most people receive benefits because they are disabled and unable to work.
Though both programs are limited to people who cannot work because of a disability, there are some differences. SSDI is a program for those who have a history of work and who have paid into the Social Security system. It requires a certain amount of work over the past 10 years before you apply for disability, with the amount depending on your age. Then if you qualify, the amount of your benefits will depend on your earnings over that same 10-year period.
SSI is a needs based program for those who are disabled and otherwise destitute. There is no requirement that you have a work history. Instead, this program will look at your assets to make sure that you don’t have any other sources of income to pay for your basic necessities.
Local Andover, Massachusetts Social Security Disability AttorneysAt Marcotte Law Firm, our SSD attorneys are local. Not only will you be able to meet with an attorney, you’ll be able to meet with one in your community. With our local office in Andover, Marcotte Law Firm comes to you. You won’t have to worry about going into Boston for a meeting, or finding out that the lawyer you called is actually located out of state.
More importantly, our Andover disability lawyers have the experience necessary to get you the results you need. Our philosophy of meeting with clients early and often in the process is our way of making sure your case has everything it needs to prove your disability to the Social Security Administration. Winning a SSD case starts a long time before you sit down at the Hearing in front of the judge.
If you are applying for Social Security Disability or have had your claim denied at any stage, call the Andover Disability lawyers at Marcotte Law Firm for a free, no obligation consultation.