Navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be overwhelming, especially when facing financial hardships due to a disability. At Burch & Rodgers, we understand these challenges firsthand. With over 60 years of combined experience in Social Security law, we are dedicated to helping you secure the benefits you rightfully deserve.

Our Commitment to You

One of the biggest concerns when considering legal representation for SSDI claims is affordability. Rest assured, at Burch & Rodgers, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• No Upfront Costs: You pay nothing unless we win your case.
• Fee Structure: Our fees are set by the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 25% of back benefits or $9,200, whichever is less. This fee is only payable if your claim is successful.
• Financial Peace of Mind: By choosing Burch & Rodgers, you can focus on your health and well-being without worrying about additional financial strain.

“I wanted to take a moment to thank you for all your hard work in helping me secure my SSD. I think because of you, your staff, and my doctor, we were blessed not to have to go as far as a hearing. Now I can afford to live better and have all my needs met. My last CAT scan showed that the cancer is gone with no spread. I have to be watched closely because it can return. Thank you for helping me concentrate on my medical conditions and getting better, instead of worrying about finances.”

Choose Burch & Rodgers

Our commitment to our clients extends beyond legal representation. We are dedicated to providing compassionate support and effective advocacy throughout your SSDI journey. If you’re ready to pursue the benefits you deserve with a trusted partner, contact Burch & Rodgers today for a consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to financial relief and peace of mind.

Focused on helping those who have had their initial SSDI application denied, this article will outline the appeals process, including deadlines and necessary steps. It will emphasize the importance of not giving up and provide practical advice on how to strengthen your case for a successful appeal.

Appeal Your Denied SSD Claim with Confidence

If your initial SSDI application has been denied, don’t lose hope. The next steps are crucial, and timely action is essential to appeal your claim successfully. At Burch & Rodgers, we specialize in turning denials into approvals for our clients.

Social Security Appeals: Understanding the Process

Getting a claim accepted by the Social Security Administration (SSA) can be challenging, often starting with an initial denial. Our experienced attorneys are adept at navigating the appeals process and advocating for your rights.

In our previous article, “How to Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits,” we discussed the essential criteria for SSDI eligibility. Understanding these qualifications is foundational as you navigate the appeals process.

The appeals process with the SSA has strict deadlines. Failing to appeal promptly could jeopardize your chances of overturning the denial. You have 60 days from the date of the denial to appeal the decision. If you wait longer than this, you give up your right to appeal. Having an attorney like Burch & Rodgers can assure you will not miss important deadlines like this.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL: “We were rejected for SSI by the government. Kevin Rogers took the case, at no cost to us unless we won. He provided excellent service. Not only did we receive our Social Security but also a $26,000 back payment. The fee was very fair, and the whole process was a pleasure.”

How Burch & Rodgers Can Help

Our attorneys will:

• Analyze your claim thoroughly
• Gather evidence from medical experts
• Develop a legal strategy to maximize approval chances
• Prepare you for hearings and represent you effectively
• Question and cross-examine witnesses
• Make compelling opening and closing remarks

The SSA often challenges claims with their own experts, but having knowledgeable legal representation significantly improves your approval odds. Statistics show that applicants with attorneys are approved more frequently. With our no-win, no-fee policy, there’s no risk to you.

Navigating the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) hearing process can be daunting. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make a significant difference in your confidence and the outcome of your case. This article will walk you through the essential aspects of the SSDI hearing process, ensuring you are well-prepared to present your case effectively.

Present Your Social Security Disability Case at the Hearing

On the day of the hearing, it is crucial to have full representation by an expert in Social Security law. Burch & Rodgers is the partner you want by your side to guide you through the process and provide critical coaching when presenting your Social Security Disability case.

What to Expect at Your Hearing

Understanding what you will need to testify about can help you prepare for your hearing. You will need to answer questions about the following:

• Medical Conditions: Describe the medical conditions that have caused your disability and the symptoms you are experiencing.
• Limitations: Detail the limitations in your physical and mental conditions caused by your disability.
• Treatments and Medications: Discuss any medical treatments and medications related to your medical condition.
• Education and Job Training: Provide information about your education and job training.
• Work History: Outline your work history.
• Daily Activities: Explain how your disabilities have affected your ability to perform day-to-day activities.

Five Tips to Prepare for Your Social Security Disability Hearing

Being prepared for your hearing is essential if you want to win your case. Here are five ways you can get ready:

1. Review Your Case with Your Attorney: Go over your application, medical records, and any correspondence with the Social Security Administration (SSA). This will help you remember what you have told them about your disability and identify any issues you need to address at your hearing.
2. Prepare Notes or a “Cheat Sheet”: Bring documents to your hearing that will help you remember important details about your disability. Collect these documents, such as your application, medical records, and notes regarding common questions you can expect to be asked.
3. Provide Recent Medical Records: Ensure that the administrative law judge has all your current medical records when deciding your case. Submit any up-to-date medical documents to the SSA before your hearing so that they are in your file and can be reviewed by the judge.
4. Obtain a Written Doctor’s Statement: One crucial piece of evidence is your doctor’s statement about your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work. Even if you filed this statement when you applied for SSDI, obtain a more recent one from your physician once you receive the notice of your hearing.
5. Retain an Attorney from Burch & Rodgers: The best way to ensure that you are fully prepared for your hearing is to retain an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer. Laurie Burch and Kevin Rodgers can help you file your application correctly, provide the SSA with all the necessary medical records and other evidence, prepare you for your hearing, and attend it with you.

Client Testimonial:

“I am writing to thank you for your help and the help of your staff in getting my Social Security disability benefits. You answered all of my questions and prepared me for what to expect. I do not think I could have gone to my hearing without the information you gave me. I would have been too afraid.”

Life is good. Then something happens, and you find yourself sidelined as a result of a disability. It can be a long wait to receive financial help through the Social Security Administration. What should you do in the meantime? A disability is stressful, and you’re worried about everything. You have bills to pay, and you have people who depend on you. Your mental and physical health should be your priority, but how can you cope with the many stressors that are surrounding you?

It is important for your health and your case that you get medical treatment while your claim is pending. Most of us receive our medical insurance through our employment. Unfortunately, most of us lose coverage once we are unable to work. Without insurance coverage, it is very difficult to get the medical treatment that you need.

Here are some suggestions:

• You may qualify for Medicaid. You can apply through your local Department of Social Services.
• Another avenue is charity care. Some clinics and hospitals provide treatment at low or no cost if you meet certain income requirements.
• There is also help available to get your prescription medications at low or no cost through the Prescription Assistance Program. Please ask your doctor to help you apply.

Once you are approved for disability benefits, you will qualify for Medicaid or Medicare depending on your entitlement.

Laurie Burch and Kevin Rodgers can counsel you on how to receive care while your claim is pending. You deserve a compassionate, knowledgeable, board-certified attorney. Let Burch and Rodgers handle the burdens of the paperwork, dealing with SSA and the complicated law. Then you can concentrate on your health.

Call us today for a free, no obligation, consultation.