West Virginia Social Security Disability Lawyers

Social Security Disability Insurance provides a safety net for individuals who suffer a debilitating injury or illness that leaves them unable to work. While few healthy people believe it could happen to them, the Social Security Administration (SSA) states that research shows the average 20-year-old worker has a three in ten chance of becoming disabled before retirement age.

If you or a loved one is in need of Social Security Disability (SSD), it may be more difficult to collect than you expected. Because the eligibility guidelines are strict, you may have been declined and now have to appeal. The West Virginia Social Security Disability attorneys at the law office of Michael Martin & Associates strive to ensure you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.

Who is eligible?

SSD is for total disability only. There are no benefits for partial or short-term disability, so in order to qualify for benefits you must be completely unable to work. You may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits if you have been disabled for five full months, have worked jobs covered by Social Security, and:

• You are unable to perform the work you did before your injury or illness
• The SSA determines that your medical condition prohibits you from taking a different type of job
• Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death

If you meet all of the above criteria and are approved for SSD, your benefits come in the form of a monthly payment that is based on you lifetime average earnings covered by Social Security. Benefits typically continue until you are able to return to work on a regular basis.

Once you are approved and begin receiving SSD benefits, certain family members may be eligible for a monthly benefit payment of up to 50 percent of your disability rate. This includes:

Appealing a decision

If you have been denied benefits you deserve, you have a right to appeal that decision but must do so within 60 days of the date you receive notification of denial. We can help. Our Social Security Disability lawyers have in-depth knowledge of the criteria the Social Security Administration considers when they review your application and appeal, as well the appeals process and the best way to present your case so you can begin collecting benefits. We understand the severity of your situation and make it our priority to obtain the best possible outcome based on your circumstances.

Let Michael Martin & Associates fight for you today

When you or a loved one suffers an injury, the experienced West Virginia personal injury lawyers at Michael Martin & Associates can help. With offices in Charleston and Beckley, we represent clients in Social Security Disability matters throughout West Virginia, Eastern Kentucky and Southern Ohio. Call us today at 866.230.1902 or contact us online to discuss your case.