If you are over 50 and living with a disability in Akron, OH, you could have a better chance of receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. The Akron Social Security Disability lawyers at Berger and Green can help you file your claim and appeal a denied claim.
Our Akron over 50 Social Security Disability lawyers can handle every stage of the application and appeals process. You can call us today to discuss your options.
How Does Our Social Security Disability Lawyer Help People Over 50?
Fundamentally, having legal representation can protect your rights and ensure you get the legal advice you need. When handling claims involving adults over age 50 show we understand why it is so critical that you receive the disability benefits that you have worked for.
You deserve to have the proper tools and knowledge to advocate for yourself. Our Akron disability lawyers will provide you with those tools. To that end, we will:
- Discuss your disability benefit options.
- Determine your eligibility.
- File your application.
- Track your case’s deadlines.
- Translate SSD terms.
- Decipher reasons for a denial.
- Gather evidence for an appeal.
- Represent you in hearings.
- Continually champion you.
The attorneys at our law firm have decades of experience working with SSD. This experience provides our team with knowledge of the system, with all its quirks and requirements. Let us share our experience with you to improve your chances of getting approval.
If You’re Overwhelmed
As a person with a disability, you may be asked to accommodate the world to your condition rather than the other way around. Not at Berger and Green. If your disability means you only have a finite amount of concentration or energy, we respect that and work to reduce your mental and physical load through this process.
If You’re Worried About Money
Hiring our firm to assist in your case will cost you nothing. We only receive our payment when you receive your benefits (and there is a maximum lawyer fee). We provide an initial no-obligation initial consultation so you can learn about your rights and options.
If SSA Denies Your Claim
SSA denies most disability benefits claims, even ones for people over 50, so don’t get discouraged at this stage. We are familiar with what information Social Security Disability is looking for and will use that knowledge to help you pursue an appeal.
If necessary, our Akron attorneys can represent your over-50 SSD claim through all four stages:
- Reconsideration
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing
- Appeals Council review
- Federal court lawsuit
We can provide additional evidence of your disability or work history to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and develop a strategy for representing you. You generally have 60 days to file an appeal, so don’t wait to reach out to our team if your over-50 claim is denied.
40+ years of experience from strong, knowledgeable, compassionate attorneys.
Start A Free EvaluationWhat Are the SSD Opportunities for Applicants Over 50 in Akron, OH?
If you have a condition the SSA considers disabling, you have two paths to benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is available based on your work history, while SSI is based on your income and assets.
When the SSA evaluates your ability to work, they check if:
- You will be out of work for at least a year.
- You can’t do work you used to do or work that accommodates your disability.
- You can’t engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA).
However, the second point is key to claims for those over the age of 50. Someone who is under 50 might find it easier to adjust to different work that accommodates their disability. By contrast, an older adult might find that harder, especially if they have few skills that transfer to other positions. The SSA administration will consider your age and your transferable skills or lack of when making a determination.
We know you’re hurting. We can help. Free case evaluations, home and hospital visits.
Contact Us Now For HelpHow the Grids Could Apply to Your Akron Social Security Disability Claim
In addition to the other evidence used to evaluate your disability benefit claim, the grids consider your:
- Age
- Education
- Work experience
- Residual functional capacity
Rather than just one deciding factor, these are taken together to get an accurate idea of how your disability affects your overall ability to work.
Are You an Older Adult?
One aspect the SSA evaluates with the grids is the age group you belong to. If you are over 50, the SSA considers it harder for you to transition to a new career or type of work compared to someone younger.
What Education Have You Received?
The grids look at the highest level of education you have received. If you have less education in your background, such as only a high school diploma, approval for disability benefits is potentially easier to get.
Does Your Work Experience Transfer to Another Job?
Your previous jobs and the skills you acquired are analyzed. If your work experience doesn’t equip you for a new job with your condition, you may be eligible for benefits if your medical condition is expected to last for a minimum of 12 months.
What Is Your Residual Functional Capacity?
If your condition is not listed in the SSA’s listing of impairments, you must undergo a residual functional capacity (RFC) assessment. Your doctor or an examiner from Disability Determination Services will determine your RFC.
They evaluate your condition and how it affects your ability to do types of work, categorized by how physically laborious it is, from sedentary to heavy labor. The fewer work options you have due to your disability, the more likely it is your application is approved.
How This Affects You
Because of the rules outlined in the medical-vocational guidelines, you could have a better chance at approval for Social Security Disability benefits if you’re older or have specific experiences.
You need an attorney with the experience and dedication to give your case the care it deserves.
Start A Free EvaluationOur Akron Social Security Disability Lawyers Can Guide You Through the Grids for Your Over-50 Benefits Claim
At Berger and Green, our disability attorneys have experience working with clients who are over 50 and seeking Social Security Disability in Akron. Our attorneys know how your work history, experience and education impact your claim for benefits and what steps you need to take. Contact our office today to get started.