Social security is a federal program designed to provide consistent monetary assistance to persons in need. Although this ‘need’ takes many forms, most recipients of social security are severely impaired. These impairments are the result of disabling conditions.
Individuals who receive social security are typically disabled in at least one way. Many recipients of social security benefits are unable to care for themselves or their families. Many more are poor individuals of “limited income” and “limited resources.”
Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) actively helps those persons most in need. This governmental agency has been facilitating social assistance for many decades. The SSA even helps Americans through a variety of other programs.
From birth to death, millions of people across the country receive help from the SSA.
If you or someone you know is in need of benefits, do not hesitate. The time to apply is now. The state of Georgia is filled with individuals who receive social security benefits. There are many beneficiaries, young and old, who absolutely depend on their social security disability.
GA Social Security Disability
Overall, the Social Security Administration (SSA) administers two types of disability benefits. These separate programs include Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Although both programs require an applicant to be disabled, each program is different.
The SSDI program requires that all social security claimants have worked a sufficient work history. This is measured by what is called ‘work credits.’ The SSDI program also requires that the applicant has a total disability that currently prevents the applicant from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
The term, SGA, is used in the definitions of disability for both SSDI and SSI. Any applicant who meets or exceeds a certain level of monthly income will be determined to be engaging in SGA. Typically, if you are engaging in SGA, you are not considered ‘disabled’ by the SSA. Therefore, you will be denied benefits.
In order to receive the Social Security Disability Georgia trusts, you need to prove a total disability. A total disability must meet one of three conditions. The disabling condition must be expected to last one year, or must have already lasted one year. The condition may also be expected to lead to death.
If the condition meets any of the aforementioned conditions, and also prevents SGA, then the applicant may be found ‘disabled.’
Under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, disability claimants must also prove this type of disability. However, these social security applicants do not have to have a work history. In fact, many SSI claimants have hardly worked in their lives.
These claimants must also meet certain requirements for “limited resources” and “limited income.” To be approved for benefits, an SSI claimant must not exceed a certain monetary value in earnings and assets. This value may vary.
Before you visit a local SSA office to apply, speak with an attorney about these requirements.
Your Social Security Office GA Location
In the state of Georgia alone, there are roughly 6 million residents, with nearly 4% of these people receiving Social Security Disability benefits. Any applicant for disability benefits in GA must meet the SSA’s rules on disability, income and work.
When you attend your GA location, you may be surprised to learn the numbers. As many as 60 percent of Georgia disability claims are denied by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Applicants who file the first level of appeal, the Request for Reconsideration, are rejected at a rate of 80 percent. Many applicants will have to attend a hearing in front of an administrative law judge (ALJ) before ever getting approved.
This is why legal representation is so critical.
Overall, the average disabled Georgia resident receives $1,054.70 in monthly benefits. These payments certainly help with the associated costs of long-term disability. However, many social security applicants will undergo extensive stress in applying.
The process for getting approved is rarely easy. It can also be very time-consuming. Many Georgia applicants will have to wait anywhere from 400 to 540 days to even reach a disability hearing. Furthermore, the ALJ can take as along as 90 days to reach a decision.
Various SSA Offices In Georgia deal with this appeals process. Specifically, the SSA’s Office of Disability and Adjudication Review (ODAR) handles hearings in Georgia. The time you must wait to schedule a hearing depends on where you live in the state.
So contact a top disability lawyer today.
At the Law Office of O’Brien & Feiler, we are prepared to help with all stages of the application process. We will ensure your application is completed properly and thoroughly.
If you need to go to appeals, we will litigate for optimal results. Call us today.