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How to Apply for Social Security Disability in Michigan

Home>The Bernstein Blog>How to Apply for Social Security Disability in Michigan

If you or a family member has recently become disabled, you may have questions about Social Security disability benefits and how to apply for them. It’s common to wonder whether you are eligible for benefits, which type of benefits you should apply for, how much financial assistance you can expect to receive, and what to do if your application is denied. 

The Social Security disability system is complex and there are strict requirements when submitting an application. Having an experienced Social Security disability lawyer on your side as you go through the application process can make things less stressful and improve your chances of success. 

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OVERVIEW OF SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY (SSD) BENEFITS

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in Michigan can be a complicated process. Before getting started, it is essential to understand the different kinds of benefits and determine which type you are eligible for.

Here are the basic categories of Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) 

These benefits are designed for workers who have a long-term disabling injury or illness. These benefits are also known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Retirement, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (RSDI). These monthly benefits are available to people who have worked enough to build Social Security work credits. Applicants must meet several requirements in order to be eligible for these benefits.

Supplemental Security Income Benefits (SSI) 

These benefits are need-based for disabled children and adults with limited work history, assets and income. As with SSDI benefits, applicants need to meet certain qualifying criteria. 

HOW TO APPLY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE OR SSI BENEFITS IN MICHIGAN

There are a few ways to apply for Social Security disability benefits. If you are applying by yourself, you can submit an application online, call the disability benefits toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, or visit a local Social Security office in person. 

Because the application process can be confusing and overwhelming, it is recommended to hire a disability lawyer. A good disability lawyer will help you fill out the required forms when submitting a SSDI application. If denied, your lawyer will work with you when filing an appeal. 

DO YOU NEED A SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LAWYER? 

The disability determination process is difficult and, on average, close to 70% of individuals who apply for disability benefits are denied. In addition, filing an appeal can be a complicated process. At times, Social Security disability cases can proceed to trial. 

Instead of trying to apply for Social Security disability benefits on your own, hiring an experienced Social Security disability lawyer is highly recommended. There are several reasons for this:

  • An SSDI lawyer will explain your rights to Social Security disability benefits and help you determine the category of disability benefits of which you may be eligible to apply.
  • Your attorney will help you fill out the numerous (and often complicated) forms and make sure your application complies with the strict SSA deadlines and filing requirements.
  • A qualified lawyer will determine a strategy and legal arguments that best support your claim.
  • The SSA denies many applications, even for people who meet the eligibility requirements. If this happens, you need a qualified SSD lawyer to help you through the complicated appeals process.
  • If your case results in a hearing, you will be much more successful when represented by a knowledgeable attorney.

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES 

The majority of people who are able to receive Social Security Disability Insurance are workers who meet the SSA requirements. A good disability lawyer will determine whether you qualify for any of the exceptions the SSA grants to people in certain situations. These may include:

  • Those with specific medical conditions may qualify for compassionate allowances programs
  • Wounded warriors and veterans
  • Disabled children with a parent who is deceased or receives retirement or disability benefits
  • Disabled widows or widowers

CONTACT OUR TEAM OF EXPERIENCED SOCIAL SECURITY ATTORNEYS 

“The Social Security disability benefits system is one of the most complex,” says Mark Bernstein of The Sam Bernstein Law Firm. “The multitude of rules, regulations and exceptions to those rules make the application and appeals processes extremely challenging. Our dedicated SSD lawyers understand this complicated system. They will do whatever is necessary to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.”

Our lawyers have the tools and expertise it takes to get you and your family the benefits you deserve. Social Security disability law is complicated, but finding the right lawyer is simple.

Start your case today by clicking the button and filling out the brief form below or contacting us for a free no-obligation consultation.

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