Michigan Social Security Disability Lawyer
Last updated on December 20, 2024
Proving disability can be a very challenging task without the help of an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer. Up until the age of 50, a person must provide proof that they are disabled from working at any and all jobs, regardless of age, education or work experience. Qualifying for DIB or SSI becomes a bit easier once a Claimant reaches 50, and it is easier still at 55 and 60. But it can still be a long and difficult journey.
There are also special requirements for disabled widows over the age of 50.
This all sounds pretty confusing. Let one of our Michigan attorneys help you sort through the red tape and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Attorney fees are contingent on winning your claim, whether DIB or SSI, and the fee is limited to 25% or $6,000, whichever is less. That means we will investigate Social Security claims and never charge you unless and until we win you money.
If you think you qualify for any of these benefits, do not hesitate to call our Michigan lawyers for a free phone consultation. Remember, at Scott Goodwin Law P.C., we fight for you.
When most people think of Social Security they think of retirement benefits. Full retirement in age is currently 66 years of age, but will be advancing in the coming years. Early retirement benefits can be obtained as soon as age 62. However, there is 20% reduction in benefits for drawing benefits early, and the reduced amount lasts for life. Other than the yearly cost of living increase, recipients of early Social Security benefits don’t see an increase in their benefits when they reach full retirement age.
Many people are not aware that Social Security has other programs as well. Disabled persons can draw Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if they are disabled within Social Security’s rules. These rules cover financial and earnings situations as well as disability status.
To draw DIB benefits, a disabled individual must have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes in 20 of the 40 quarters of the 10 years prior to becoming disabled. There are no other financial requirements. Assets, other income and spousal assets or income are not considered.
SSI is a welfare program in addition to being a disability income. Recipients cannot have more than $2,000 in non-exempt assets, nor other significant income. Exempt assets included the basics: a home, a car, clothing and furniture. Significant spousal income can disqualify a disabled person.
Once the nondisability requirements are met, Social Security evaluates the claimant’s medical status. Certain illnesses and injuries qualify for automatic payment under what is called the Listing of Impairments. If the disability does meet or equal a listed impairment, an analysis is performed of the Claimant’s functional status, as well as their age, education and work experience.