How Do You Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Guiding You Through The Complex Maze Of Disability Benefits

The process for pursuing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits is complicated. The initial applications are confusing, and one simple mistake can result in a denial. Although a majority of original claims are denied, applicants have several levels of appeals available to help them achieve the financial assistance they need.

At the Law Office of Ellene Welsh, we focus our practice on filing appeals on behalf of clients whose claims have already been denied initially. We have an in-depth understanding of the complex appeals process and have worked with the Social Security Administration for more than a decade. We can also provide general instructions on how to file an initial disability claim. Call our offices in Douglasville or Columbus at 770-489-3456 for a free initial consultation.

How to Apply for Social Security

It is important to understand how to apply for Social Security Disability benefits, but also to understand how the appeals process works when an initial application for benefits has been denied. The appeals process can be complex, but because of its importance, it is essential to be familiar with the appeals process, as well as the application process.

When applying for SSD benefits, it is important to initially evaluate the applicant’s situation; to ensure that the applicant has a qualifying physical or mental condition; to ensure that the applicant is receiving appropriate medical care and treatment that is being properly documented; and it is important to thoroughly document the medical condition through medical records, document medical history and document the applicant’s education; and present the applicant’s case for SSD benefits. Understanding the steps in the application process can help thoroughly demonstrate the applicant is qualified for disability benefits.

It is also important to seek capable medical care when suffering from a medical disability and applying for Social Security Disability benefits. To qualify for SSD benefits, the applicant must be disabled due to a physical or mental health condition that prevents them from working and the applicant must also have sufficient work history. In addition, the medical condition must last longer than 12 months or be expected to result in death. There are several levels of appeals ranging from a request for reconsideration to a hearing or additional actions.

Knowing how to present a thorough application for benefits and a strong case for appeal, is beneficial to disabled individuals applying for benefits. Applicants should always make sure they are educated concerning the processes involved when applying for SSD benefits.

What Happens If Your Claim Is Denied?

You can apply for short-term or long-term benefits without a lawyer at your local Social Security Administration office. If your claim is denied, and most of them typically are, that is when you need the assistance of a knowledgeable SSDI/SSI attorney.

Your legal representative will:

Assess your situation
Ensure you have a qualifying physical or mental disability
Oversee your medical treatment and records for evidence
Gather all necessary documentation, including medical records, work history, and educational background information
Persuasively present your case

As a local law firm, we have built strong working relationships with a network of doctors, clinics, and other healthcare providers. If your disability demands specific medical treatment, we are able to advise you regarding available resources, including reduced-cost options.

Get Legal Advice From An Experienced SSI And SSDI Lawyer If You are Denied

Practicing law since 1988, our attorney Ellene Welsh has secured disability payments for numerous individuals in Georgia. She knows what documentation is necessary to present in an appeal, will represent you at any hearings and can answer all your questions about your case. Rest assured, she will remain by your side each step of the way.

To arrange a complimentary initial consultation, contact us. We look forward to working with you and pursuing the SSDI or SSI benefits you deserve. We handle SSDI and SSI cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you owe us no attorney fees until we secure benefits for you.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

SERVICES

Social Security Disability Insurance

Supplemental Security Income

Workers Compensation

Hear From Our Clients

The Law Office of Ellene Welsh Testimonials

Law Office of Ellene Welsh

4.7

Based on 54 reviews

review us on

Avedis Smith

20:02 27 Jul 23

When I first got my review denial letter from SSA and had to appeal I was crushed...I contacted several lawyers and no one wanted to take my case. I contacted Ellene Welsh law firm and spoke with Annette and told her about my situation(she spoke with Attorney Welsh) they agreed and took my case. Let me tell you, they are so thorough...they took the time to explain everything to me each step of the way and obtained all medical records, worked endlessly with my SSA hearing officer, and help ease my anxiety. I'm happy to write after a long battle I received a fully favorable decision with no hearing!! If you need a office that will work tirelessly for you then look no further...Thankyou so much to Attorney Welsh and Annette...

Donl Atkins

21:47 02 Jan 23

Mrs Welsh and her staff were so helpful. They kept me informed every step of the way and I received a better decision than I expected.Would hire them again if needed.

Reign Supreme

17:19 02 Nov 22

Friendly, professional and attentive. I was made to feel comfortable asking questions.

Debra A Brittian-Thomas

23:16 19 Oct 22

Kimberly Hanback

17:04 05 Oct 22

I had tried to get my disability first with a different lawyer and was turned down. When I called thier office to ask about an appeal they said they couldn't help me and was very rude and hung up on me. Found another lawyer who did my appeal was turned down. I called Ellene Welsh and her and her staff were very nice and helpful. Of course it was during the pandemic so we had to do things differently but she helped me and I won my case. Anytime I had a question they were very helpful and nice. If I could just say if you need a great lawyer with a great staff call her. They will fight for you. Love them.

kyle croft

20:29 11 Jul 22

After being denied by SSD , I called the Law offices of Ellen Welsh and she got my disability claim approved. Her employees were professional and easy to work with. They took care of everything. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone needing help with their SSD CLAIM

Kris Arhart

17:46 02 Feb 22

Ms. Ellene Welsh Came recommended from another attorney. The whole process with her office was as smooth as it can be. If you have never had to use a attorney before let me explain something I learned. Every great attorney has a amazing Paralegal / assistant or more behind them. Ms. Welsh team made contact As easy as I can get. Whether it be by phone or email. Thank Ms. Welsh and your amazing office for all the hard work yall did to make this process as easy as possible.

Pam Scheib

02:49 01 Feb 17

I became a client of Ellene's 3 years ago. When I first met Ellene she took a great deal of time to go over my denied paperwork from Social Security. She explained it was not a quick process and we would be looking at least another year to eighteen months before a hearing. She explained every step! When I had questions Becky and other office staff were always there to walk me through my questions and ease my mind and at times frustrations. Never along this journey did I feel ignored or abandoned. Ellene's staff got all my records together for my hearing and thanks to their hard work we got an immediate decision. It is very rare, I knew it was a good case going in, but Ellene made sure every "I" was dotted and every "T" was crossed. She was excellent in front of the judge and knows what she is doing. It was her 20 plus years experience that makes her so good! I can't thank Ellene and her staff enough for all their time, hard work and dedication in helping me with my case. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney.