Nashville Social Security Disability Lawyers

Our Nashville Social Security Disability lawyers know what it takes to file a successful social security disability (SSD) claim. So whether you’re applying for benefits or you need help preparing your appeal, we want to help. Contact our friendly legal staff today to get the legal representation you deserve—just call 615-244-4325 or fill out a free initial consultation form.

Frequently Asked Questions

SSA Disability Requirements

You must meet the SSA’s strict disability requirements to qualify for SSD benefits. The SSA considers you disabled if you:

• cannot do the work you did before.
• cannot adjust to other work because of your medical conditions.
• have been disabled, or are expected to be disabled, for at least one year or your disability will result in death.

In certain cases, family members, such as spouses and unmarried children, may also be eligible to receive benefits.

Social Security Credits and SSD

The SSA gives you “credits” based on how much you earned while working. The precise dollar amount you must earn to get a credit goes up a little every year, and you can earn a maximum of four credits per year. The number of credits you need to qualify for SSD benefits depends on how old you are when you become disabled:

• Under Age 24
  You generally must have earned six credits in the three years leading up to the date you became disabled.
• Between Ages 24-30
  The SSA typically requires you to have worked at least half the time between age 21 and the date you became disabled.
• Age 31 and Older
  You need to have earned at least 20 credits in the 10 years leading up to your disability. The exact number of credits you need to qualify for SSD benefits increases until age 62.

We know it can be difficult to determine if you have the credits necessary to get SSD benefits. If you aren’t sure if you qualify for SSD benefits, contact us today.

Why are SSD claims denied?

The Tennessee Disability Determination Services denies 75 percent of all initial SSD applications—one of the highest rates in the nation. The SSA may deny your disability claim based on a variety of factors, including your:

• Income and Resources
  Your monthly income must fall below what the SSA considers substantial gainful activity (SGA). SGA limits, which vary based on the nature of your disability, change every year. Visit the SSA’s Substantial Gainful Activity page for the most up-to-date income limits.
• Failure to Follow Prescribed Therapy
  The SSA may deny your claim if you fail to follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment when the treatment is expected to help you recover and return to work.
• Expected Recovery Time
  SSD benefits are intended for people with disabilities lasting for more than one year or resulting in death. The SSA may deny your claim if you’re expected to recover from your disability within weeks or months.

Don’t give up if your SSD claim was denied. Around 70 percent of Tennesseans who appeal their denials ultimately have their claims approved. Having an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer on your side during the appeals process can make a big difference.

Our Nashville Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help

Whether you’re facing an appeal or need help applying for benefits, Ponce Law will work hard to get you the best possible results. We’re a local law firm serving clients in Nashville metro, Goodlettsville, and surrounding areas, and we care about helping our neighbors and community. So don’t wait, give us a call today.