Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability Insurance Benefit (DIB) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) laws were created to assist disabled people. But the process to attain benefits can be lengthy and complicated. If you have paid into the Social Security system and believe you are eligible for disability benefits, contact your local Social Security office and file an application for benefits. After you file your application, call Dugan & Associates. We will advise you about the process. If you have been denied benefits, call our office and if you retain us we will help you secure a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, gather additional medical records and reports and present your case for benefits. There is no fee for our services unless you are awarded benefits. Call our office for a free consultation.

How do I apply for Social Security Disability?
You must contact your local Social Security office and inform them that you wish to apply for disability benefits. They will take your information and process your application.

When should I contact an attorney?
Contact our office immediately after filing your application with the Social Security office. If you have been denied benefits by the Social Security office, call our office immediately and if you retain us we can help you appeal and secure a hearing for benefits.

What happens after I file my application?
A claims representative from the administration will contact you. This person will be the first to decide your case.

What happens if I am denied benefits by the administration?
You have 60 days to file an appeal to request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. It could take several months to more than a year for a hearing to be scheduled. During that time, we will keep your files updated and request additional medical information regarding your case.

What will happen at the hearing?
We will help you prepare for the hearing. At the hearing, you will testify under oath about your background, work history, impairments and daily activities. Your lawyer as well as the Administrative Law Judge will question you.  There may be a vocational counselor or other possible witnesses who will testify regarding your case as well.

What happens if the Administrative Law Judge denies my claim?
It is possible to appeal a denial from an Administrative Law Judge by filing a request for review with the Appeals Council. We will advise you as to whether we feel this is appropriate, and if so we can help you file the appeal.

For more questions about social security disability, contact us.

Dugan & Associates
4 West Manilla Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
Tel: (800) 772-5422
(412) 922-0800
Fax: (412) 922-0801

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