Social Security & Disability

Cincinnati Social Security Disability attorneys

Do You Need Help Pursuing Social Security Disability Benefits in Ohio?

Many people with entirely legitimate disabilities and challenges that prevent them from working or earning a living wage are denied for Social Security Disability (SSD) every day in Ohio. Why would a program intended to help people with insurmountable challenges be so callous? One of the main reasons is abuse of the system by people who don’t really need it. Unfortunately, the many suffer due to the actions of the few, which has led to a system that is far too harsh, complicated and difficult for the average SSD filer to tackle on their own.

The team the Buckeye Law Group understand how frustrated you might be after your first SSD denial – or even after your appeal is denied. We know because we’ve helped many Cincinnati residents who have struggled against similar denials. Let us use our expertise to help you obtain the benefit you are justifiably owed.

Why Qualifying for SSD Can Be a Challenge for the Average Filer

Strict eligibility criteria: To qualify for SSD benefits, an applicant must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA’s) definition of “disability,” which is stringent. The disability must be a severe medical condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months or result in death. The condition must also prevent the applicant from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA), meaning they cannot earn a certain amount of income through work.

Detailed documentation requirements: Applicants must provide extensive medical documentation to support their disability claim. This includes medical records, test results, treatment histories, and statements from healthcare providers. Missing, incomplete, or outdated information can lead to a denial of benefits.

High initial denial rates: The majority of initial SSD applications are denied, often due to:

• Technical errors in filling out and filing all the necessary paperwork
• Insufficient medical evidence
• A lack of clarity regarding the severity of the applicant’s disability

Many applicants need to go through a lengthy appeals process, which may include multiple levels of review and even a hearing before an administrative law judge.

Long processing times: The SSD application and appeals process can be time-consuming, with some applicants waiting months or even years to receive a final decision. During this time, applicants may face financial hardship as they are unable to work and have no income from SSD benefits.

Work history and credits: To qualify for SSD benefits, applicants must have worked long enough and recently enough to earn sufficient “work credits” based on their age. Some applicants may not have enough work credits, even if they are genuinely disabled, and may need to seek other forms of assistance.

Periodic Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs): Even after being approved for SSD benefits, recipients must undergo periodic CDRs to determine if they still meet the eligibility criteria. The SSA may terminate benefits if they believe the recipient’s condition has improved enough to allow them to return to work.

What Can You Do to Increase the Likelihood of SSD Approval?

A qualified Social Security Disability attorney, like those at the Buckeye Law Group in Cincinnati, can help guide you through the application process, gather necessary documentation and represent you during appeals or hearings. Our expertise and experience can increase your chances of a successful outcome.

We Can Help SSD Filers

Understand the eligibility criteria: Understanding the requirements is the best way to ensure your case is presented in such a way that it’s clear you meet the criteria for both the medical definition of disability and the necessary work credits.

Gather comprehensive medical documentation: We can help ensure you are providing adequately detailed and up-to-date medical records, including doctors’ reports, diagnostic test results, treatment plans and any other relevant information.

Be thorough and accurate in your application: One of the most useful tasks an attorney can provide is ensuring all required forms are properly filled out accurately and consistently. We will double-check your application for errors, omissions or inconsistencies that could lead to delays or denials.

Seek the support of your healthcare providers: Our team can work directly with your doctors and other healthcare providers. In some cases, they may not understand the SSA’s definition of disability. By working together, we can ensure they are providing detailed, accurate medical information that aligns with the SSA’s requirements.

Be persistent: It’s easy to become discouraged after an initial denial or a failed appeal. We’ll be in your corner, so you don’t feel tempted to give up. Many successful SSD applicants go through the appeals process first. We’ve found that clients who understand the reasons for their initial denial and are given the necessary tools to address any issues or gaps in their application are more likely to find success in the future.

Communicate with the SSA: We can maintain open communication with the SSA throughout the application process and respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documentation, including of changes to your medical situation that may impact your application.

Stay accountable: If the SSA schedules a consultative examination with a medical professional to further evaluate your disability, it is of vital importance that you attend the appointment and cooperate fully with the examiner. We can be the extra motivation you need to stick with the process and take the necessary steps to secure the benefits you deserve.

Prepare for the appeals process: Appealing denials, or being prepared for an appeal, is essentially a necessity for SSD filers. We can help familiarize you with the appeals process and its various stages (Reconsideration, Administrative Law Judge hearing, Appeals Council review and federal court review). Our team can ensure you understand the deadlines, requirements and expectations for each stage and prepare to present a strong case for your disability.

Stay organized: The success of an SSD filing is based largely on documentation. We can help you keep and organize copies of all documentation related to your SSD application, including medical records, application forms, correspondence with the SSA and any other relevant materials. We’ll stay organized, efficiently manage your case and respond to any requests or challenges that may arise.