Disability Lawyer Fayetteville, AR: Get Legal Help Now

Hiring a Disability Lawyer in Fayetteville, AR

Social Security disability benefits are essential for millions of Americans. But, the application process is anything but easy. You need to build a strong case with extensive documentation for the best chance at approval. Even then, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may ask for more proof.

When you hire a disability lawyer in Fayetteville, you get expert legal guidance from start to finish. We'll help you throughout the filing and appeals process to give you the best chance at securing benefits.

Our attorneys focus exclusively on disability and social security law, so we know the common pitfalls that lead to denials and what it takes to get approval and collect benefits as soon as possible.

What Social Security Benefits are Available in Arkansas?

Arkansas has two primary Social Security disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both programs provide financial assistance for people who can't work or do any substantial gainful activity (SGA). However, the eligibility requirements and monthly benefits vary, complicating the application process.

Fortunately, a disability lawyer can help ensure you get the maximum aid available.

Social Security Disability Insurance

SSDI is designed for disabled workers who have a work history and have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. To qualify, you must demonstrate that your medical condition meets the SSA's strict definition of disability and that you have earned enough work credits.

An SSDI claim primarily offers financial support. But, you may also receive Medicare or Medicaid coverage to help pay medical bills. This added benefit reduces your expenses without taking away from resources like housing or food.

Securing SSDI benefits requires extensive documentation. You may need medical records, employment history, and statements from healthcare providers to prove your disability. Fortunately, expert guidance can help you gather the right materials and increase your chances of approval.

Supplemental Security Income

SSI is available to people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older. Unlike SSDI, this program is based on financial need instead of work history.

SSI benefits include financial aid as well as Medicaid coverage to help pay for medical expenses, but it's usually less than SSDI benefits. However, you may be eligible for both programs, so it's important to talk to a disability lawyer to learn your eligibility.

Like SSDI, securing SSI benefits requires medical documentation. You'll also need to prove your financial situation and need for aid, which adds additional paperwork to your file. This increases the chances of making a mistake and getting denied.

Fortunately, we'll work with you to compile the necessary evidence and file a complete claim.

What to Do When Your Disability Claim Is Denied

Receiving a denial letter from the SSA can feel devastating, but don't panic: you may still be eligible for benefits.

Over 60% of Social Security disability claims are denied at first. These initial applications are often incomplete, have insufficient evidence, or even simple errors in the paperwork. These small mistakes don't reflect your eligibility but also prevent you from receiving benefits. Fortunately, the Social Security disability appeals process gives you multiple opportunities to fight for the benefits you need.

As experienced Fayetteville Social Security lawyers, we've helped countless clients turn their denials into approvals through careful preparation and skilled representation. Here's how we can assist at each stage of the appeals process:

Reconsideration

Requesting a reconsideration is the first step in the appeal process. This involves asking the SSA to review your claim again with a fresh perspective. During this stage, you can submit additional evidence to strengthen your case. For example, you may provide updated medical records or more detailed statements from your doctors.

While approval rates at this stage are low, our team knows how to identify weaknesses in your initial application and fix them. We'll work with you to ensure your case is as strong as possible before it's reviewed again.

Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge

If your claim is denied again at reconsideration, the next step is to request a hearing before an ALJ. This is a chance to present your case and explain how your disability affects your ability to work.

Preparation is key to success at this stage. We'll help you gather compelling evidence, prepare your testimony, and address any potential weaknesses in your case. During the hearing, we'll advocate on your behalf to ensure the judge fully understands the extent of your disability and the impact it has on your life.

Appeals Council Review

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the Social Security Appeals Council. They'll examine whether the judge made legal or procedural errors during your hearing.

Unlike in prior stages, the council doesn't review your eligibility. They look for legal mistakes that occurred during your hearing that contributed to a denial. They're highly technical and require disability law expertise to form a strong legal argument.

Luckily, our team has the extensive experience needed to handle these technical appeals and fight for your right to benefits.

Federal Court Civil Suit

For some claims, the final option is to file a lawsuit in federal court. This step can be intimidating, but it'sit allows you to have your case reviewed by a judge outside the SSA system.

Escalating your case to a lawsuit can be stressful and confusing. But at Impact Disability Law, we're committed to standing by you from start until finish. As your legal representation, we'll fight to secure the benefits you're entitled to by building a strong, compelling argument on your behalf.

Get Help From a Fayetteville Disability Attorney

Applying for Social Security disability benefits can be a daunting and emotional experience. And when you're dealing with the physical and financial challenges of a disability, it's even more stressful.

At Impact Disability Law, we understand how significant these benefits are. We have the legal experience you need to navigate this complex process.

As your Fayetteville, AR Social Security disability attorney, we help drive better and faster decisions. We can help with everything from avoiding costly mistakes on your initial application to standing by your side during appeals.

Our expert legal services have helped clients throughout Northwest Arkansas navigate the Social Security system and achieve successful outcomes – and we're ready to do the same for you.

Don't let the complexity of the disability claims process hold you back from getting the support you need. Contact us today for a free initial consultation with an experienced attorney. Fill out the contact form below, and let's take the first step toward securing your benefits.