Disability Lawyers in Colorado

Understanding Disability Benefits in Colorado

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two programs for disability benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Each program has its own requirements and benefits, which you may qualify for separately or together based on the nature of your disability, your work history, and other factors, so it's important to work with a disability lawyer to avoid leaving aid on the table.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI supports individuals who have a history of working and paying Social Security taxes. While they're commonly associated with retirees, Social Security benefits can apply to people of any age with a qualifying disability.

If you have worked for several years, paid into Social Security, and are now unable to work due to a medical condition, SSDI could be available to you.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is designed to help those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Like SSDI, people of any age can receive benefits, including children. 

SSI benefits serve as a safety net for individuals who may not have a significant work history but still face financial difficulties due to a disabling condition.

Types of Disability Benefits Available

If you qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits, you will receive monthly disability payments to help with various living expenses. However, you may also receive medical benefits in addition to financial aid.

SSDI beneficiaries can receive Medicare or Medicaid to help pay for their medical bills. SSI beneficiaries also usually receive Medicaid based on financial need.

Besides the monthly benefits, low-cost medical care helps you treat and manage your disabling conditions without limiting resources for other necessities like food and housing costs.

The Social Security Disability Claims Process

Filing for disability benefits can be intimidating – especially if you don't know what to expect. When you work with the Impact Disability Law team, we'll guide you through the entire process from start to finish, which includes:

• Initial Application: You submit an application that includes your personal information, medical information, work history, medical records, and any other important information. We'll make sure you file correctly and include all necessary documentation.

• Reconsideration: After an initial rejection, you can request a reconsideration from an SSA agent different from those who worked on your initial application. We'll review your filing to fill in any gaps and gather additional information as needed.

• Hearing: You can request a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) after a denied reconsideration. We'll present your case in person and fight for your rights.

• Appeals Council: Unsuccessful hearings may be reviewed by an Appeals Council to ensure the judge's ruling is legal and correct. We look for any mistakes they could have made that affected your decision.

• Civil Suit: The last step is a full civil suit where we represent you and fight for your rights to disability benefits.

If you initially receive a denial, don't panic. While only 38% of initial claims are approved, expert legal assistance can help you secure your approval during the appeal process.

How Disability Lawyers in Colorado Assist with Claims

While disability benefits are essential for helping people with disabilities support themselves and their families, securing them isn't easy. 

From gathering supporting documentation to navigating the complex legal requirements of the appeals process, it's common to feel overwhelmed and confused. Even worse, one small mistake can lead to a denial or endless requests for more information regardless of your eligibility – ultimately delaying your access to essential benefits.

Fortunately, the right disability lawyers offer a steady hand to help you expertly navigate the claim process.

At Impact Disability Law, we use our extensive experience to help minimize wait times, increase approval chances, and reduce your stress. Here's how:

• Completing Forms Correctly: Errors on forms lead to delays or denials. We ensure every form is accurate and submitted on time to meet SSA requirements.

• Presenting Complete Work History: A clear work history is vital for SSDI eligibility. We help you present it thoroughly, maximizing your benefit potential.

• Organizing Medical Records: Strong medical evidence is essential. We work with healthcare providers to gather and organize all necessary records, reducing the need for additional documentation requests.

• Securing Expert Opinions: Expert medical opinions can reinforce your case. We collaborate with specialists to provide detailed assessments that strengthen your application.

• Analyzing Denials: We review denial letters to pinpoint weaknesses and build a focused, stronger appeal strategy.

• Representing You Legally: From hearings to federal court, we provide comprehensive legal representation, presenting a compelling case at every stage.

While filing for SSDI or SSI benefits can be incredibly difficult, the right legal advice makes all the difference in your experience and the results.

Common Issues and Denials in Disability Claims

While denials are incredibly common, accounting for almost 60% of initial decisions, they're incredibly demoralizing. Fortunately, there are a wide range of reasons the SSA may deny a disability claim, ranging from small administrative mistakes in filing to reasons you can't change.

You may be denied SSI or SSDI benefits due to:

• Mistakes when filing your claim

• Insufficient medical evidence

• Earning too much income

• Failing to follow treatment for your condition

• A lack of disability history

• Insufficient work credits (SSDI)

• Uncooperative conduct with SSA

• Substance abuse contributing to the disability

While this list isn't exhaustive, it shows the wide range of reasons for denial that can lead to significant delays or not receiving the benefits you're entitled to. 

With the help of a Social Security disability attorney, you can learn more about your denial and the steps you should take (if any) to appeal the SSA's decision.

Receive A Free Assessment from Social Security Disability Lawyers in Colorado

Applying for Social Security disability benefits can feel like climbing a steep hill—one filled with complex paperwork, medical documentation, and constant requests for more information. When you're unable to work and bills are piling up, these benefits are essential—but approval isn't guaranteed.

At Impact Disability Law, we understand the stress this process brings, especially when you're already dealing with health challenges. Our team steps in to guide your application or appeal, handling the details and communicating with the SSA on your behalf so you can focus on your health.

As your Colorado Springs Disability Lawyers, there's nobody more dedicated to securing your disability benefits. Our law office works exclusively on Social Security disability cases, so no matter what stage of the process you're on, our legal services can help steer you in the right direction.

Give us a call or complete the contact form below to schedule your free consultation today!