Indiana
Social Security Disability Lawyer

On This Page

1. How Can Berger and Green Help With Your SSD Claim?
2. Who Is Eligible for SSD Benefits in Indiana, PA?
3. What’s the Difference Between SSDI and SSI Coverage?
4. What Are the Stages of a Disability Claim in Indiana, PA?
5. Let Us Help You Prove Eligibility for SSD Benefits in Indiana

REVIEWED BY

C. William Kenny

December 12, 2022

Board certified by National Board of Trial Advocacy

Are you looking for help with your Social Security Disability (SSD) claim in Indiana, PA? Our team at Berger and Green can help. Our experienced disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means there is no fee unless you are awarded SSD benefits.

An Indiana Social Security Disability lawyer from our firm can step in to provide help with your SSD application or appeal. We understand your situation and use our years of experience when handling your case. You don’t have to do this alone.

How Can Berger and Green Help With Your SSD Claim?

We understand the complexity involved with moving through the Social Security Disability application and appeals process. Our team uses their experience to handle all aspects of your case. When you reach out to us we can:

• Evaluate your claim for benefits
• File your initial application for benefits
• Appeal your denial
• Ensure all deadlines are met
• Request a hearing or reconsideration on your behalf
• Represent you at your hearing before an Administrative Law Judge

Who Is Eligible for SSD Benefits in Indiana, PA?

How do you know if you’re eligible for SSD benefits in Indiana? Generally, you have to meet specific criteria to qualify for these benefits. The SSA may provide benefits to individuals who:

Worked for a Specific Amount of Time

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid taxes in a job covered by Social Security. Each year that you worked you earned work credits. Your age determines the number of work credits needed for eligibility.

The number of work credits required to draw SSD benefits varies. An Indiana Social Security Disability lawyer can review your work history to determine if you qualify for benefits.

Have a Disability That Prevents You from Working

In addition to assessing your work history, the SSA only provides benefits if you have a condition that prevents you from working. You can only receive SSD benefits if you have a disability that prevents you from working any job for a minimum of 12 months; the agency does not cover short-term or partial disability.

To receive benefits, your claim must show that:

• You cannot work because of your condition
• You cannot perform substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to your condition
• You cannot perform your old job or learn a new job

Additionally, you must provide documentation from a medical professional indicating the length of your diagnosis. SSA only provides benefits to individuals with conditions expected to last a minimum of one year or with conditions that could lead to death.

Speak to an Indiana, PA Social Security Disability attorney for personalized support with your application.

What’s the Difference Between SSDI and SSI Coverage?

We use the term SSD to refer to both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, the National Council on Aging (NCOA) explains how these programs function in different ways.

What Is SSDI?

SSDI provides benefits to individuals who have a disability. Participation in the SSDI program requires you to have a specific number of work credits. You receive a set amount each month through the program, which your family can use towards essential expenses.

What Is SSI?

The SSI program provides financial assistance to older individuals or individuals with disabilities. Generally, only individuals with very limited income can secure funds through this program, unlike the SSDI program. Learn more about both programs with an Indiana Social Security disability lawyer.

What Are the Stages of a Disability Claim in Indiana, PA?

The disability claim application process in Pennsylvania includes four stages:

Complete Your Initial Application

You can begin the claim process by filing an initial application in Indiana. You may file a claim online, over the phone, or by going to the closest Social Security office to file in person.

The majority of individuals receive a denial for their initial application. At this point, you may appeal your denial.

If you applied for benefits on your own and have questions, call Berger and Green. We can help you to understand your denial and to file your appeal.  We encourage you to not give up.

File a Request for Reconsideration

If the SSA denied your initial application, you have the option to appeal when you file a Request for Reconsideration. You only have 60 days to file this form. The SSA reviews your new claim and may reverse its previous decision or deny your claim again.

If you receive another denial, you can file a Request for Hearing.

File a Request for Hearing

You have 60 days after receiving a denial in your Recon hearing to file a Request for Hearing. This hearing occurs in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). You do not have to handle the hearing on your own, a lawyer can help guide you through the process.

Go to the Appeals Council

The ALJ either approves your claim or issues another refusal. If the ALJ refuses your claim, you can move to the Appeals Court. However, this body often upholds the decisions of the ALJ.

Federal District Court

If you are unsuccessful at the Appeals Council you can file a civil lawsuit in Federal District Court.

Let Us Help You Prove Eligibility for SSD Benefits in Indiana

How can you prove eligibility for SSD benefits? An Indiana Social Security Disability lawyer can help you build a strong claim for benefits starting with your application. We’re ready to assist you. Just call or complete our online contact form to get started.