How Disability is Decided in Ridgeland MS?

Get the Benefits You Deserve by Understanding How Disability is Decided in Ridgeland MS

When facing a disability that limits your ability to work and earn a living, you may be entitled to compensation through disability benefits. However, understanding how disability is decided in Ridgeland MS can be a complex process. That’s where The Rollins Law Firm comes in. 

With extensive experience in personal injury, bankruptcy, social security, and workers comp cases, we can help you navigate the legal system and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. At The Rollins Law Firm, we offer a free consultation to discuss your case and provide personalized guidance on your options for disability benefits. 

Let our legal team help you get the financial support you need during this challenging time. Contact us today to know more. 

What is Disability?

According to Social Security Administration (SSA), an individual is considered disabled if they have a medical condition that prevents them from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Additionally, the individual’s medical condition must be severe enough to significantly limit their ability to perform basic work-related activities such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting, or carrying. 

To qualify for disability benefits, the individual must have a work history and have paid into the Social Security System through payroll taxes. Other programs, such as workers’ compensation or private disability insurance, may have different definitions of disability, depending on the specific terms of the policy or program.

Disability Determination in  Ridgeland, Mississippi

The process for determining disability in Ridgeland, MS is the same as in other parts of the United States. Disability is determined by SSA, a federal agency responsible for administering disability benefits programs.

The SSA uses a five-step process to determine disability, which includes evaluating the individual’s work history, medical records, and ability to perform basic work-related activities.

1. Determine if the individual is currently engaging in SGA. If they are, then they are not considered disabled. 
2. Assess if the individual’s impairment is severe enough to interfere with basic work-related activities.
3. Identify if the impairment meets or equals one of the listed impairments in the SSA’s blue book or the Disability Evaluation Under Social Security. If the impairment meets or equals a listed impairment, the individual is considered disabled.
4. Determine if the individual can perform any past relevant work. If they can, they are not considered disabled. 
5. Evaluate if the individual can perform any other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy. If they cannot, they are considered disabled and may be eligible for disability benefits.

Determination of disability is a complex and often lengthy process, and it’s highly recommended that individuals seeking disability benefits consult with our experienced attorney to guide them through the process.

How Much Work Do I Need To Do To Be Eligible For Disability?

To qualify for Social Security disability benefits in Ridgeland, Mississippi, you must have worked long enough and recently enough to earn sufficient work credits. Work credits are earned based on the amount of wages or self-employment income you earn each year, and you can earn up to four credits per year.

The number of work credits you need to qualify for disability benefits depends on your age at the time you become disabled. Generally, you need to have earned at least 20 work credits in the 10 years immediately preceding the onset of your disability. However, younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.

However, even if you meet the work credit and SGA requirements, you still need to undergo a medical evaluation and meet the SSA’s definition of disability in order to qualify for disability benefits. The determination of disability can be a complex procedure, so it is strongly advised that you consult with our seasoned attorney for assistance.

What is the Best Way to Apply for Disability in Mississippi?

The best way to apply for disability benefits in Mississippi is online through the Social Security Administration’s website. Applying online is generally the easiest and most convenient method, as it allows you to complete the application process from the comfort of your own home at any time of day or night. To apply online, you will need to 

• Create an account on the SSA’s website
• Provide your personal information, and answer questions about your disability, medical history, and work history
• Provide supporting documentation, such as medical records and doctor’s statements, which you can upload directly to the website

If you prefer not to apply online, you can also apply for disability benefits by phone or in person at your local Social Security office. However, keep in mind that applying by phone or in person may take longer and may require you to provide additional documentation.

Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to be thorough and accurate when completing your disability application. Providing as much detailed information as possible about your disability and how it impacts your ability to work can help increase your chances of being approved for benefits.

Hiring a Disability Attorney vs. DIY in Mississippi Disability Claims

Whether to hire a disability attorney or pursue a disability claim on your own in Mississippi is a personal decision that depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case, your level of comfort navigating the legal system, and the potential risks of making mistakes.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to hire a disability attorney or handle your claim on your own:

• Understanding of the law: Disability attorneys are experienced in disability law and have a thorough understanding of the legal system. They can help you navigate the complex legal process, which can be challenging for someone without legal training.
• Experience with the disability claim process: A disability attorney has experience handling disability claims and knows how to build a strong case for disability benefits. They can help you gather the necessary medical evidence and present your case in the best possible light.
• Higher chance of approval: Disability attorneys can increase your chances of being approved for disability benefits. They can help you avoid common mistakes that can lead to a denial of benefits, and they can provide valuable guidance throughout the claims process.
• Time and effort: Pursuing a disability claim on your own requires a significant amount of time and effort. You’ll need to gather medical records, complete paperwork, and attend hearings. A disability attorney can handle many of these tasks for you, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being.
• Reduced stress: Pursuing a disability claim can be stressful, especially when dealing with an illness or injury. By hiring a disability attorney, you can relieve yourself of the burden of navigating the process on your own and focus on your health and well-being instead.

Ultimately, the decision to hire a disability attorney or handle your claim on your own depends on your individual circumstances. If you have a complex case or feel uncomfortable navigating the legal system, hiring a disability attorney may be the best option. However, if your case is straightforward and you feel confident in your ability to handle the process on your own, pursuing your claim independently may be a viable option.

How Can a Mississippi Disability Attorney Help Me If My Claim is Denied?

If your disability claim is denied in Mississippi, our disability attorney can help you in several ways during the appeal process:

• We can help you request a hearing before an  Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), who will review your case and make a new decision. We can ensure that all the necessary paperwork is filed and help you prepare for the hearing.
• We can help you gather additional medical evidence, such as medical records, test results, and expert opinions, to support your claim. We can also help you obtain statements from witnesses and other relevant information that may strengthen your case.
• We can represent you at the hearing before the ALJ, presenting your case and arguing on your behalf. We can cross-examine witnesses and present evidence to support your claim.
• We can prepare you for the hearing by advising you on what to expect and helping you understand the questions you may be asked. We can also provide guidance on how to respond to questions and present your case in the best possible light.
• If your case is denied by the ALJ, we can help you appeal to the ODAR. We can review the decision, identify any errors or omissions, and help you develop a strategy to address them.

Overall, our disability attorney can be an invaluable resource when your disability claim is denied in Mississippi. With the help of our attorney, you may be able to successfully appeal your claim and obtain the disability benefits you deserve.

Get Help From Our Ridgeland and Gulfport Disability Attorneys

With years of experience in personal injury cases such as dog bites, hit-and-run accidents, slip-and-fall accidents, burn injuries, back injuries, brain injuries, broken bones, foot injuries, vehicular accidents, pedestrian accidents, and premises liability, our team has the knowledge and experience to help you get the compensation you deserve. We also specialize in social security disability benefits and can guide you through the application process to increase your chances of approval. 

At The Rollins Law Firm, we believe in fighting for justice and helping those in need. That’s why we offer a free consultation to discuss your case and determine the best course of action. Our team understands the emotional and physical toll of disability cases, and we’re committed to providing personalized and compassionate support throughout the entire legal process. 

Don’t suffer in silence. Let The Rollins Law Firm help you get the compensation and benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.