Reno is a popular city in the northwest section of Nevada. Known for its tourism and casino industry, Reno is often called the “Biggest Little City in the World.” In addition to tourism, Reno has a growing technology sector. Tourists and residents enjoy outdoor sports throughout the year. Many tourists visit Reno and Lake Tahoe, which is only 22 miles from Reno. Reno is a popular location for domestic and international conventions. Every year, Reno residents become disabled and unable to work. If you or your loved one have become unable to work due to a medical condition or illness, Roeschke Law, LLC Las Vegas is here to help. Our Reno Social Security disability benefits lawyers can help you apply for the Social Security benefits you deserve. We will complete your disability benefits application and appeal your claim if you’re denied. Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation.
The Difference Between SSDI and SSI Benefits
If you are no longer able to work due to a medical condition or disability in Reno, it’s crucial that you begin the social security disability application process for benefits as soon as possible. The application process can take some time, and the sooner you submit your application, the better. It can take between three and five months or even longer for the Social Security Administration to process your claim. Filing an appeal will take even longer.
There are two main Social Security benefits programs: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. The eligibility requirements for these programs are different. We will carefully review your situation and help you determine which benefit program works best for you. SSI benefits are only available to Reno residents who have little to no income and cannot work. You must meet the following requirements:
- You are 65 or older
- You are blind
- You are disabled
- You have minimal income and resources
SSDI benefits are available to disabled workers, regardless of the amount of income and assets they have. When applying for SSDI benefits, you will need to prove that you have enough work credits. Employees earn work credits by the social security contributions they’ve made through their paychecks. Surviving spouses may be able to qualify for SSDI benefits through their spouse’s work credit history. We can help you determine whether you’re eligible if you’re unsure.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits in Reno, Nevada
The application process for social security benefits is confusing and complicated. While you can apply on your own, the likelihood of success will increase when you work with an experienced Social Security lawyer. The Social Security Administration rejects most first-time applications for SSI and SSDI benefits. Our legal team knows which types of errors and missing information cause rejections.
We will ask you a series of questions to determine whether you qualify for benefits. We will help you complete the application and review it thoroughly to ensure that it contains all of the necessary information. We will also check your application for accuracy. Once your application is complete, we will submit your application for you. When completing your application, you will need to gather information. We understand the application process and will help you gather and submit all of the required information, such as:
- Your Social Security number
- Medical records from therapists, hospitals, doctors, and clinics
- The contact information of your doctors
- The names and dosages of your prescription medication
- Your laboratory and test results
- Your employment history
- A copy of your most recent W-2
- Your birth certificate
Which Types of Disabilities Qualify?
Not every medical condition constitutes a disability, according to the Social Security Administration. You will need to prove that your disability meets the requirements set forth by the Social Security Administration using medical documentation. The Social Security Administration defines a disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a physical or medical impairment.
Your impairment must be expected to cause your death or last for at least 12 months. During the application process, the Social Security Administration examiner will evaluate whether you’ve gained enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits. if you have, a claims examiner will review your medical records and ask your medical providers about the following factors:
- What your medical condition is
- How your medical condition limits your activities
- When your medical condition started
- What types of medical treatment you’ve received
- Your ability to engage in work-related activities
Appealing the Denial of Your Social Security Claim
If you receive notice that your claim has been denied, you have the right to file an appeal. You will need to submit a notice of appeal within 60 days of receiving your denial letter. The appeals process can be complicated and lengthy, unfortunately. The first step in the process is called a request for reconsideration. A different claims examiner will review your claim and make a decision. If there are any errors in the decision, our lawyers will point them out to the new examiner.
If you do not succeed in your request for reconsideration, you can request a disability hearing before an administrative law judge within 60 days of the denial. At the hearing, we will present evidence on your behalf. The administrative law judge (ALJ) will ask you questions regarding your medical condition and how it affects you. The judge will also discuss your case with a vocational expert. After the hearing, you will receive written notice about the decision between 30 and 100 days of the hearing date. If the administrative law judge denies your claim again, you can request a hearing before the Social Security Administration Appeals Council.
Contact a Reno Social Security Disability Lawyer Today
At Roeschke Law, LLC Las Vegas, our team has an in-depth knowledge of Social Security regulations. We understand how challenging it is to apply for Social Security benefits, especially when you’re coping with a serious disability. Our team will help guide your Social Security disability claim through the complicated application process. Should the Social Security Administration deny your claim, we will quickly appeal on your behalf. Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation.