Need Help Receiving CT Disability Benefits?

The Social Security Disability benefits process can seem daunting to the average person. However, the more you understand about the process the more effective your application can be. The Nicholas Law Firm, LLC has helped clients pursue disability benefits in CT since 1989 and can help you.

The Social Security Disability process

The Social Security Administration's (SSA) process for the initial disability claim can take three to five months or longer. Once your disability application is received, a Social Security representative reviews your information. If your application meets the necessary criteria, the representative forwards your application and evidence to the state Disability Determination Services (DDS), which determines whether your disability qualifies under SSA standards.

Disability standards

The SSA employs a five-step evaluation process to determine whether your disability meets its standards and definitions, including:

• Whether you are working and earning more than the threshold amount
• Whether your medical condition is severe enough to determine you disabled
• Whether your condition is on the SSA List of Impairments
• Whether your disability prevents you from doing your previous work
• Whether you can do and/or adjust to other work

Once your application has been processed, you receive a letter from the SSA that either accepts or denies your application. If your application has been accepted, the letter includes information on what benefits you may receive. If your application is denied you have the right to appeal.

What happens if your application is denied?

If your application is denied, you may find that consulting a lawyer is the best idea at this point. However, if you wish to pursue the appeal yourself, following is a brief description of the appeals process in a denied CT disability benefits application:

• Reconsideration is the re-examination of evidence at a hearing before a disability hearing officer. If denied at the reconsideration stage, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing may be requested.
• During the ALJ hearing, you present new evidence and expert witnesses. After the ALJ hearing a written decision is issued.
• If you receive an unfavorable decision at the ALJ hearing, you may file an appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council through a written brief.
• Your final option is to petition for review in federal court. If you receive another unfavorable decision or the Appeals Council does not grant your request, you may file a lawsuit in federal court.

Time limits apply—discuss your case

Each appeal has a limited time period, so acting quickly is important. Contact The Nicholas Law Firm, LLC online or call 866-471-5194 to schedule a free consultation today.