Wilkinsburg
Social Security Disability Lawyer

On This Page

1. Get Help With Social Security Disability in Wilkinsburg
2. You Could Be Eligible for Disability Benefits
3. Applying for Disability Benefits Can Be Complicated
4. Our Team Can Navigate the Appeals Process
5. Social Security Disability Resources
6. Berger and Green Help When You Need It Most

REVIEWED BY

C. William Kenny

December 12, 2023

Board certified by National Board of Trial Advocacy

Get Help With Social Security Disability in Wilkinsburg

If you find yourself in need of social security benefits due to an ongoing physical or mental disability that prevents you from working, the team at Berger and Green can help you navigate the legal proceedings. We can help you at all stages of the claims process for disability benefits from your initial application through to filing an appeal in court, if necessary.

Losing an income, then being denied help from the social security administration (SSA) can be devastating. We understand the implications this can have on you and your family’s wellbeing. For these reasons, we are dedicated to providing you with compassionate and responsive legal services during this difficult time.

We can help to simplify the application process for you and make sure the SSA has all of the appropriate information required to apply for disability benefits. To learn more about what we can do for you, call Berger and Green at (412) 661-1400 today.

You Could Be Eligible for Disability Benefits

If you are unable to work due to any physical or mental impairment that is expected to last for a year or more, you may be eligible to file an application for disability benefits. There are several options available to you, and a lawyer can advise you on a course of action that meets your needs and circumstances.

Examples of qualifying conditions for such benefits include:

• Back injuries
• Heart and cardiovascular disease
• Depression and other psychological conditions
• Vision or hearing loss
• Cancer
• Kidney disease
• Respiratory illnesses, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma
• Arthritis

This list is not exhaustive, so if you have any questions about qualifying criteria, or about how to begin an application for disability benefits, speak with a Wilkinsburg Social Security disability lawyer who will be able to advise you on your next steps.

Applying for Disability Benefits Can Be Complicated

While there are many potential qualifying conditions and injuries that give you eligibility to apply for disability benefits, the claims process is complicated, and there is no guarantee of approval.

You will need to prove that your disability is so severe that it keeps you from working, and you will need to back your claim up with appropriate medical and treatment records that demonstrate the extent of your condition. Working with a Wilkinsburg Social Security disability lawyer can be advantageous, as they can help to make sure you include all of the necessary information required to support your application to the SSA.

Our Team Can Navigate the Appeals Process

The annual Statistical Report on the Social Security Disability Insurance Program reports that in 2016, the average monthly benefits for successful SSD applicants was $1,171.15 a month. While this statistic may not pertain to your situation, it does demonstrate how a successful application can alleviate your financial stress.

If your application is denied, you will need to request a second review, and then file an appeal if necessary. It is beneficial to seek legal representation at this stage.

Requesting a Second Review

If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision with the SSA.  Knowing what to do when you file a request for reconsideration is essential. It may be that you need to provide further evidence to support your application, or that you have left out vital information. It is helpful to seek legal representation at this point to help you fight for the benefits you are rightfully entitled to have.

Filing an Appeal

The next stage of the appeals process is to take your case before an administrative judge at an appeal hearing. As of 2019, changes to federal disability programs in Pennsylvania have seen reconsideration being reinstated. This means claimants will need to wait until they receive a decision on the second request review from the SSA before proceeding to the hearing stage.

If your claim for disability benefits has been refused, or if you have questions about the application process, contact Berger and Green for a free consultation. Our goal is to help you receive SSD if you qualify. Call us today at (412) 661-1400.

Social Security Disability Resources

It is essential to seek legal representation from a law firm that is informed about new changes in social security law and has a background in litigating such cases.

Berger and Green can assist you when it comes to deciding whether to file an appeal about any decision you have received concerning:

• Social security disability insurance
• Supplemental security income
• Social security disability appeals
• Social security disability over 50
• Veterans disability benefits
• Long-term disability

Depending on your circumstances and how far along in the claims process you are, it can take anywhere from six to 24 months for your case to reach a favorable decision.

It is recommended that you contact a Wilkinsburg Social Security disability lawyer for help sooner rather than later when completing your initial application for benefits, as this can promote your chances of being approved upon your first submission.

Berger and Green Help When You Need It Most

If you need guidance with your social security benefits application or have had your request denied, contact Berger and Green at (412) 661-1400 for a free case review.  We take the worry out of paying for legal services when you have a limited income and accept cases on an affordable contingency basis. This means our attorneys only charge fees if they reach a favorable outcome on your behalf.

We understand how far-reaching physical and mental disabilities can be in your everyday life, and the positive impact a successful legal outcome can have for you.  When you feel alone, let us be your voice. We are here to help today.