Illinois Social Security Disability Lawyers
If You’re Unable to Work, We Can Help
Approximately 70% of claimants who apply for Social Security Disability benefits are denied at the initial application level. Overall, only 40% of disability claimants ever get approved, even after filing appeals. You don’t have to become one of the hundreds of thousands of disabled people who are turned down by the Social Security Administration every year.
With decades of experience in SSDI claims, the Social Security Disability lawyers at Martay Law Office can give you the edge you need to win.
- 100+ Years of Experience
- 97% Success Rate
- FREE Legal Advice
- No Recovery, No Fee
- If You Can’t Come to Us, We’ll Come to You
For help with your initial SSDI application, filing an appeal, or preparing for your ALJ hearing, call Martay Law Office at 312-372-9022. Consultations are free.
What Is Social Security Disability?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly benefits to people who are unable to work due to a disability. To qualify, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s criteria, showcasing a severe impairment expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The SSA considers your age, work history, and medical condition when determining eligibility. Successful claimants receive monthly benefits, offering crucial support during periods of incapacity. The application process involves submitting medical evidence, work history, and other pertinent details.
What Is the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is for individuals with a qualifying work history who’ve paid Social Security taxes. SSI is a disability program that is based on the claimant’s income and resources. Both programs provide financial benefits to those with disabilities, but the criteria for qualification and funding sources distinguish them within the Social Security Administration’s support framework.
How to File for Social Security Disability
To file for Social Security Disability, start by gathering necessary documentation, including medical records, work history, and personal information. Complete the online application, contact a Social Security Disability lawyer at our law firm, or visit your local Social Security office to apply in person. Be thorough in detailing your medical condition’s impact on your ability to work. Promptly respond to any requests for additional information and attend any medical examinations if required.
How to Increase Your Odds of Obtaining Disability Benefits
People who enlist the help of Social Security Disability lawyers double their chances of obtaining benefits.
In a recent survey:
- About one-third of people interviewed hired an attorney or disability advocate during some point in the claims process.
- Of those who had legal representation, about 60% were ultimately approved.
- Only 34% of claimants who didn’t have legal representation were approved.
A government report from 2017 reveals similar results. According to the report, disability claimants who hired lawyers were 2.9 times more likely to obtain benefits than those who tried to go it alone.
Getting Legal Help with Your Initial Application
Few disability applications are approved at the initial application level, but with help from an attorney, your odds improve by up to 40%. Approximately 28% of disability applicants who hire attorneys are approved at the initial application stage, compared with only 20% of those who completed their applications without professional help. Why the improvement? SSDI lawyers are familiar with the language used by the SSA, the administration’s rules, and the medical evidence needed to support a claim.
Enlisting Legal Help at the Administrative Law Judge Hearing Level
Only about 52% of claimants whose applications are denied go on to request a hearing before a judge. Approximately 71% of those who do appeal at this stage hire a lawyer. Getting legal help at this stage is a good decision because it is at the ALJ hearing level that disability attorneys make the most difference in approval rates. In fact, having a disability lawyer on your side when you attend your hearing more than doubles your odds of achieving a successful outcome. About 50% of those surveyed who had legal representation at this level were approved for benefits. In comparison, only about 23% of claimants who represented themselves were approved.
How Our Disability Lawyers Help Clients Win SSDI Benefits
Our lawyers make a difference in success rates for SSDI claims in a number of ways.
- Medical Evidence: Our team is familiar with the medical evidence needed to support a disability claim. We’ll help you gather medical records, doctor’s notes, test results, and other documentation that is applicable to your case.
- Access to Experts: We recognize when the testimony of a medical expert may be needed to help prove your case. Additionally, we have the resources to locate and secure the services of appropriate medical experts.
- Preparing for Your Hearing: Our lawyers are familiar with the Administrative Law Judges who hear disability cases in Illinois. Our familiarity enables us to anticipate the areas of focus and potential questions you might face at your appeals hearing so we can help you get prepared.
- Cross-Examination: We know how to cross-examine vocational experts in ways that strengthen your case.
Worried About the Cost of Hiring a Disability Lawyer?
If you’re worried about the out-of-pocket cost to hire a disability attorney, don’t be. Martay Law Office handles SSDI claims cases on a contingency fee basis. We will provide you with the tools, guidance, and courtroom representation you need to win benefits without requesting upfront payment. If you’re not approved for disability benefits, you owe us nothing. If we win, our fees will come out of your back benefits. Your future benefit payments will be yours to keep.
Testimonials
I had a great experience with Martay Law Office. Dave was very helpful, easy to communicate with, informative, and patient. Helped me with 2 claims and got way more than I thought I would for both claims. Great lawyer, I would definitely recommend to anyone with a workman’s comp claim and will be using Marty Law Office if I have any future claims. 5 stars!-Kevin
Martay Law was great to deal with. David and his staff were very professional at all times throughout dealing with my Workman’s Comp case. David explained everything to me every step of the way and always kept me informed. He worked hard on my case, fought for me and made sure things were right with my claim. Great job all around, very happy with my experience, would definitely recommend.-Kurt
Social Security Disability FAQ’s
1.How Long Does it Take to Receive a Decision on a Social Security Disability Claim?
The processing time varies, but it typically takes several months to over a year to receive a decision on an SSDI claim. Delays may occur due to the complexity of your case, the Administration’s backlog, the need for additional medical evidence, or the possibility of appeals.
2.What Common Reasons Could Lead to the Denial of a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Claim?
Denials often result from insufficient medical evidence, lack of work credits, or failure to meet the Social Security Administration’s specific disability criteria. Incomplete or inaccurate information on the application can also contribute to denials.
3.What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Claim?
You should file your SSDI claim as soon as you become disabled and realize you won’t be able to work for at least 12 months. While there’s no strict time limit, filing promptly helps ensure your work credits are applied.
Resources From Our SSDI Lawyers
When Can You Get Social Security Disability After a Workers’ Comp Settlement?
Social Security Office Locator