Our Disability Lawyers Explain Common Terms

Applying for Social Security disability benefits can involve a lot of confusing technical terms that may not be easily identifiable up front. However, knowing what these phrases mean can be very important in doing well during the appeals process. In an effort to make sure our clients are up to par with all there is to know about the process, our disability lawyers decided to explain a list of the commonly heard terms that arise when applying for these benefits.

SSDI

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is one of the two primary forms of benefits that people apply for. To be eligible, you have to have a long-term disability that prevents you from performing gainful work, possess a certain amount of work credits, and be under the age of 65 years old among other qualifications. People often contact a disability lawyer for help in applying or appealing for SSDI.

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is the other main benefit program provided by the SSA. To qualify for SSI, you have to have a low income, possess below $2,000 in personal assets, and be older than 65. This is yet another benefit program that people seek the services of a disability lawyer for.

Work Credits

As explained earlier, you must have a certain amount of work credits to qualify for SSDI. These credits are accumulated through having a job and paying FICA taxes over an extended period of time, thus making you eligible to receive this form of insurance from the Social Security Administration. This is an important aspect a disability lawyer will use in trying to defend your case.

Gainful Work

Gainful work is a technical term for any sort of employment that is earning you money. The administration uses this phrase in deciding if your disability prevents your capacity to carry out such labor. This is an extremely crucial factor toward your Social Security disability appeal, and you will likely hear your disability lawyer repeatedly refer to this term.

ALJ

An administrative law judge (ALJ) is the person who will hear your case in court during your Social Security disability appeal. He or she will ask you questions about how your disability has affected your day-to-day life and other inquiries pertaining to the legitimacy of your condition. Hiring a disability lawyer can be extremely beneficial during this time due to the conventional intimidation that comes from appearing in court.

Contact RGG Law to Speak with an Experienced Disability Lawyer

There’s a lot to know when going through the Social Security disability application process. Luckily, having a knowledge disability lawyer by your side makes it much easier to grasp everything you need to know. If you are in need of assistance in appealing your case, then contact RGG Law at 417-864-4700