Applying for disability benefits can be a frustrating, time-consuming process. The situation can get worse if your request is denied and you find yourself back at square one. If you or a loved one suffered a severe injury or developed an illness that prevents you from returning to work, we may be able to help.
Arkansas disability benefits lawyer Ken Kieklak, Attorney at Law, can help you through the entire process. To learn more about your specific circumstances in a free, confidential consultation with a skilled, experienced, and dedicated attorney, call our law offices today at (479) 316-0438.
Qualifying for Disability Benefits in Arkansas
Whether you are trying to qualify for SSI or SSDI in Arkansas, there is a specific set of rules you need to follow to have the best chances of getting approved. Qualifying for these benefits requires petitioners to comply with the following stipulations:
Eligibility for SSI
To qualify for SSI, you must be at least 65 years old. People under the age of 65 may still be eligible for an SSI. However, they must demonstrate that they are completely disabled and have no other means to support themselves. Keep in mind that your situation will be evaluated to determine whether your specific circumstances justify the need for an SSI according to the standards of the Social Security Administration.
Additionally, to qualify financially for these benefits, you cannot own more than $2,000 in assets, with the exception of your home and a vehicle. If you are able to demonstrate that you have financial difficulties and meet the requirements set forth by the SSA (in terms of the value of your assets), you may qualify to obtain SSI benefits.
Qualifying for SSDI
To qualify for SSDI, you must meet the definition of disability as defined by the SSA. One of the ways to determine whether you meet the disability criteria is by consulting what is known as the “Blue Book.” Inside this book, there is a list of disabilities that qualify for SSDI. However, you must make sure your impairment matches those described on the list. If your disability does not match the listing, you may be barred from being qualified.
The keyword when trying to qualify for SSDI is “severe.” If your impairment is severe and is contained within the SSA’s Blue Book, you may be able to qualify. Some of the conditions that can qualify for SSDI include cancer, cardiovascular diseases, digestive tract conditions, hematologic disorders, mental disorders, and other severe impairments.
Applying for Disability Benefits in Arkansas
After suffering an injury or developing an illness, you may be unable to return to your work. As such, you may lose your primary source of income. That is where Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) come into play. SSDI is insurance offered to people who are unable to return to work due to an incapacitating injury – whether temporary or permanent – or debilitating illness. SSI is supplemental income paid by the Social Security Administration (SSA) for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or over the age of 65.
Applying to obtain the benefits provided by the SSA can be an incredibly overwhelming process due to the amount of evidence needed to support your claim. Depending on which benefits you are applying for, you will need to show evidence related to your finances, medical records, testimony, and other relevant information. Additionally, you will need to accurately present your case and prove that your disability prevents you from returning to work, justifying the need for an SSI or SSDI. Our disability benefits attorneys can help you navigate through this complex process.
How Can a Disability Benefits Attorney Help You?
Dealing with the SSA – gathering all the evidence needed to support your claim, filing your petition with the SSA, complying with other requirements – can be confusing and overwhelming. This is especially true for people who have never been involved in this type of process.
Additionally, many people may have their benefit claim denied. Oftentimes, this requires appealing your case before an administrative judge, appeals council, or even a federal court. These proceedings require not only full knowledge of your situation but a deep understanding of the legal procedures behind every step of your appeal. A skilled, experienced disability benefits lawyer can help you win approval for your benefits.
Our Arkansas Disability Benefits Attorneys Can Help You Apply for Disability Benefits
Disability benefits lawyer Ken Kieklak, Attorney at Law, can help you through your entire application process. Thanks to our many years of experience handling SSI and SSDI cases, we have developed the knowledge and skills necessary to put you in the best position to qualify for disability benefits. To learn more about your situation in a free, confidential consultation, call our law offices today at (479) 316-0438.