Social Security Disability & Supplemental Security Income Attorney in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Get the Skilled Guidance You Need for Your SSD or SSI Claim
I actively practice only in the areas of Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income claims. I am a member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR). Unlike many other law firms who only practice part-time in this area while also handling worker’s compensation and personal injury cases, I have chosen to dedicate myself exclusively to the practice of Social Security law. I feel this allows me to provide superior representation to my disabled clients.
I have much experience representing individuals with many different kinds of disabilities. Such cases include disability caused by degenerative disc disease, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, seizures, brain injury, COPD, asthma, kidney disease, learning disorders, heart disease, blindness, hearing loss, vertigo, neurological conditions, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), diabetes, neuropathy, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, and many others.
Because Social Security cases are a federal administrative practice, I can handle these cases in any state. If you're in need of guidance in Chattanooga, Franklin, Cleveland, or Athens, Tennessee, as well as nationwide, contact me today.
I personally conduct your initial consultation and am available to you directly throughout the course of your case. You will never feel like “just another client” when dealing with me.
I understand that no one chooses to be disabled and that the disability application process can be very stressful, frustrating, and frightening. I treat all my clients with dignity and respect as we work through this difficult process.
No fee on Social Security Disability claims unless you win.
How I Help You Through the Process
Do You Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines your eligibility for disability benefits. They consider you disabled if:
You cannot do work that you did before;
they 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.
The SSA is very firm on the definition of disability. Evidence must be presented, forms must be filled out correctly and deadlines need to be closely followed. If you are disabled and seeking benefits, contact me today.
How Do I Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits?
To apply for Social Security disability benefits, you will need to complete an application for Social Security Benefits and the Disability Report. Social Security may be able to process your application faster if you help them by getting any other information they need. You can also apply by calling the toll-free number. The representatives there can make an appointment for your application to be taken over the telephone or at any convenient Social Security office.
Most people are overwhelmed and intimidated by the sheer volume of forms needed to complete a Social Security disability claim. It is probably the most confusing and tedious aspect of winning a Social Security disability claim. It is also crucial.
How Do I Fill Out the Application?
A reasonable question I hear over and over is: “Does anyone ever look at these forms?”
The answer is yes and no. Usually, your case won’t be approved on what is in a form, but the information provided certainly can be used to deny a claim. The same forms are sent over and over as the claim moves through the application process. Slight inconsistencies can be magnified and used as a way to challenge credibility, and I’ve often seen innocent statements used as a reason to deny a claim.
People often need support completing forms. Few applicants want to be perceived as complainers, and many are in deep denial about the extent of their disability. Doctors and social workers want their patients to improve and they “chart for strength.” While this is good for some purposes, noting improvements but not ongoing problems like fatigue and pain can sabotage a case.
In opening up these disability report forms, I tell clients to 'be in their worst day’ for 30 minutes, and talk or write about that. Then they can go back to the benefits of positive thinking. Social Security needs to know just why they can’t work, in terms of functional impairment. This is no time for a stiff upper lip.
I’ll make sure the right information is provided – and all the medical records are gathered. In this current climate of delay at Social Security, it is important to get it right the first time so you’re not doing damage control at a hearing. I can help, call my office to make an appointment.
Been Denied for Social Security Disability Benefits?
It is very important to appeal right away if you have been denied on your initial application for Social Security disability benefits. The appeal must be filed promptly after receiving the initial denial decision. If you miss the deadline, you must reapply.
Don’t be discouraged by your denial. For many applicants, you have a better chance at winning your appeal – especially with attorney representation. For claimants with attorney representation, the success rate is up to 80% favorably concluded. In some cases, an experienced attorney can expedite the process of issuing a favorable decision. Contact me in Chattanooga, Tennessee, if you have been denied. My firm also works with clients throughout Kansas, Texas, New York, and many more states. I can help.