Litigation, Claims, Trials & Social Security Disability

Westchester County

445 Hamilton Avenue White Plains, NY 10601

New York City (Appointment Only)

60 East 42nd Street New York, NY 10165

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Alegria & Associates, PLLC

Litigation, Claims, Trials & Social Security Disability

CALL TODAY!

(914) 761-1133

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

About Social Security Disability

What qualifies as a disability?

Disabilities may be physical and/or mental impairments. In general, the disability must be severe, and prevent you from working. Many other factors, including your age, education and prior work experience are considered when the Social Security Administration decides whether you are disabled or not. Please contact us to discuss your situation.

How old must I be to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits?

Though the rules are relaxed for people over 50 years of age, any individual, of any age, may be found to be disabled.

When should I apply for SSD or SSI disability benefits?

You should apply as soon as you believe you have a disability that will prevent you from working for at least 12 months even if the 12 months has not yet passed.

Is there a limit to the length of time I will receive benefits?

Yes. You will get benefits until you reach your retirement age, or your disability improves to a point where you can work full-time, or if your income improves while you are receiving SSI benefits.

How much money will I receive when I am awarded SSD or SSI benefits?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD)

SSD benefits vary based on your earnings history. Monetary benefits may range from several hundred dollars for a disabled worker with limited work history and no dependent children, to nearly $3,000 for a disabled worker with a long work history and dependent children.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI benefits vary based upon your assets and other factors. Currently, the maximum SSI monthly benefit is $771 for an eligible individual or $1,157 for an individual eligible for SSI with a spouse also eligible for SSI. Of course, these amounts may be less based upon your particular circumstance. These maximum amounts may increase in future years for cost of living increases.

How long will it take to get a decision on my initial application for benefits?

Each case is different, but generally speaking, it could take 1 to 6 months.

What should I do if my initial application for benefits is denied?

You should request a hearing within 60 days of your denial. Preparing for the hearing is more complex than filing your initial application. Contact us to help you prepare for your hearing.

If my initial application is denied, how long will it take to get a hearing?

Each case is different, and some hearing offices are busier than others. Generally speaking, it could take 12 to 24 months.

How long must I wait until I get a decision after my hearing?

Generally, you will have a decision in 1 to 4 months.

What should I do if more than 60 days have passed since my application was denied?

You should immediately contact your local Social Security Administration district office and give a good reason why your appeal is late. Call us so we can assist you.

After I file my application for SSI/SSD benefits, what should I do to help my case?

Continue treatment with physicians and therapists to support your claim for disability. If you cannot afford to continue your medical treatment, contact our office to discuss other options.

What should I do if I am unable to work, but not seeing a doctor for my disability?

You should start seeing a doctor and obtain medical care and treatment as soon as possible. In order to win a claim for SSD or SSI benefits, we must have medical records and treatment records that show you have a disability. If you cannot afford medical care and treatment, contact our office to discuss other options.

What are your fees?

There is no out-of-pocket cost to you. If we are successful in obtaining benefits for you, our fee is typically 25% of the past benefits you were entitled to receive from the date your disability began until the date we help you win your claim. Our fee will not include any part of your future disability benefits.

Can anyone else in my family get benefits if I am found disabled?

Yes. Your unmarried children under 18 years of age, or student child age 18-19, may receive monthly disability payments in addition to the monthly disability benefits you will receive.

What should I do if the Social Security Administration stops my benefit payments?

Immediately request a review and an appeal.

How do I get started?

Call us today at (914) 761-1133 or (212) 758-6105 or email us at info@alegrialaw.com.

Alegria & Associates, PLLC, serves clients in the five boroughs of New York City, and the New York Metropolitan area, including: Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, Nassau and Suffolk counties, areas of Connecticut and New Jersey.