My neighbor received Social Security Disability and is not even disabled. Why was I denied?

Most people who apply for Social Security Disability benefits are, in fact, denied. You may have been denied for any number of reasons – often through no fault of your own. For example, you may be denied benefits if your doctor doesn’t know what’s important to your particular claim.

It’s important to contact a lawyer if you’ve been denied. The clock is ticking and you only have a limited time to appeal. The attorneys at George & George can request “reconsideration” of your claim denial. Contact us today!

Who decides if I’m disabled and eligible for benefits?

After a Social Security Disability claim is filed, the case is sent to a disability examiner. The examiner makes the initial decision on the claim.

Social Security said that I would be able to return to work. Should I wait to see if my health improves or should I appeal?

You have a limited time to appeal your initial denial – don’t wait to see if your health improves. Contact George & George today. Let our experience help win you the benefits you deserve.

What can’t a lawyer do for me?

No lawyer can push around the federal government, eliminate delays, or change the law to your benefit. An experienced lawyer can make the Social Security system work for you and can make the difference between winning and losing your case.

How much does it cost to hire George & George for my Social Security claim? How can I afford help? What does the attorney get paid?

Federal law regulates attorneys’ fees in Social Security Disability cases. So, virtually every disability lawyer works on the same fee basis. The lawyer’s fee is 25% of the past due disability benefits you get. There is no fee if you lose.

Where is George & George located? Does George & George offer appointments?

We have offices in Gallatin and Nashville. And yes, we do take appointments. Call us now at (615) 451-1550 to schedule one.

How can I find out if my medical condition qualifies for disability benefits?

The Social Security Administration considers your condition severe if it interferes with such basic work functions as:

  • Physical abilities like walking, standing, sitting, lifting, pushing, pulling, reaching, carrying, or handling
  • Seeing, hearing or speaking
  • Responding appropriately to supervisors, co-workers and typical work situations, and the ability to understand and complete simple instructions.

What are the important deadlines I need to watch?

  • INITIAL FILING: You need to apply for Social Security Disability benefits within a certain timeframe (usually five years) after you’re unable to work. However, every month you wait will reduce the total amount of benefits. If you wait longer than five years to apply, you may not qualify for any benefits. We strongly recommend that you apply for Social Security Disability benefits as soon as you are unable to work.
  • APPEALS: The next important deadline is your first appeal. If your initial claim is denied (and most are), you’ll only have 60 days from the date of your decision letter to file an appeal with Social Security. If you don’t file an appeal within 60 days, you give up your rights to the appeals process. Even worse, you’ll have to start the application process all over again. We strongly recommend you engage an attorney to help you file your appeals.
  • FEDERAL APPEAL: – If your claim qualifies for benefits, but has been denied on appeal, it can still be appealed outside the Social Security system by appealing to Federal court.

What will happen at my hearing?

A hearing is conducted by the Office of Disability Adjudication & Review of the Social Security Administration. An Administrative Law Judge will preside over your case and a testimony is taken under oath.

The hearing is also private. The only people present will be the Judge and the Judge’s assistant, you, your attorney, and any witnesses you may want to have present. Often the Judge may ask a vocational expert to testify about your ability to work.

Medical records and medical experts’ opinions will be accepted as evidence. The Judge or your attorney will ask you about your present medical condition, medical history, abilities, education, training, work experience and the limitations in your daily life caused by your disability. You or your attorney may make a closing argument that you are entitled to benefits under Social Security.

Why should I hire George & George?

Social Security statistics show that claimants who are represented by lawyers win more often than those who are not represented. Your best chance of winning your case against the government is to be represented by a lawyer.

At George & George, a lawyer, not a paralegal, will handle your case. If you ever want to talk to your attorney, we’re here to answer any questions. Additionally, we’ll meet with your before your hearing. Most importantly, we’re a local, family-owned business who won’t treat you like a number like some of the larger firms out there.

Is George & George very experienced in Social Security Disability?

Yes. At George & George, we have over 40 years of combined experience taking on the Social Security Administration. We take great pride in helping people get the disability benefits they deserve.

If Social Security tries to cut off my disability benefits, what can I do?

If you lose your monthly payments, you must:

  1. appeal that decision within 10 days and
  2. request your benefits continue.

You should go to your local office and appeal in person. You should also get a receipt showing you asked that your benefits continue and that it was filed within 10 days.

What is the biggest mistake people make when trying to get disability benefits?

Failing to appeal.

More than half of all claimants who are initially denied benefits do not appeal their case. Another critical mistake is the failure to immediately get medical care. Medical records are your best defense and are your evidence in disability cases, so it is essential that you see a doctor and continue to do go on a regular basis in order to chronicle the history of your disability.

I’m interested in talking with George & George. What should I do?

Contact our office today. We’ll arrange a consultation to determine whether you qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. If you do, we’ll help you start the proceedings for the best chance to win.