Pennsylvania
Social Security Disability Attorney

MERIT DISABILITY

At Merit Disability, our Pennsylvania Social Security disability attorneys are strong, experienced, and results-focused advocates for the people who need guidance and support the most—disabled individuals and their families. Social Security is complicated. A knowledgeable law firm can make the difference. If you have questions or concerns about Social Security law, we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation with a top-tier Pennsylvania Social Security disability lawyer.

An Overview of Social Security Disability Benefits in Pennsylvania

Merit Disability is a boutique Social Security disability law firm that is committed to providing the right advocacy. We handle all types of Social Security disability cases in Pennsylvania as well as other states. State lines do not limit our ability to represent clients seeking Social Security disability benefits. As a federal program, Social Security disability allows us to assist individuals from any state. No matter where you are in the country, we are committed to helping you navigate the process and secure the financial support you deserve.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for benefits through either of the following:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Social Security Disability Insurance or SSDI is a federal program that compensates people who are unable to work due to a significant disability. However, not everyone is covered. A person must have previously contributed a sufficient amount to the Social Security fund through their payroll taxes. Eligibility also requires proving the disability is severe enough to prevent any substantial gainful activity.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Supplemental Security Income or SSI is another federal disability program that exists as a direct alternative to SSDI. The big difference is that there is no work history requirement for SSI claims. Instead, applicants must prove both their medical eligibility (disability status) and their financial need. A SSI claim can be denied if an applicant has too much income or financial resources available.

Medical Documentation is Foundational to a Social Security Disability Claim

How does the Social Security Administration (SSA) define disability? It is a complex matter. Many adverse medical conditions can potentially qualify for benefits. A case-specific assessment will always be made by the claims reviewer. To determine eligibility, the SSA follows a strict five-step sequential evaluation process, which considers the severity of the impairment, work history, age, education, and skill set. Notably, medical records are foundational to any Social Security disability claim. Our Pennsylvania Social Security Disability can help you gather and organize all records.

Our Pennsylvania Social Security Disability Attorneys Handle Appeals

The denial of Social Security disability benefits is frustrating and stressful—particularly so for people and families in Pennsylvania who have a significant financial need. There is some good news: You have the right to appeal a Social Security disability denial. Our Pennsylvania SSDI and SSI attorney is here to help. There are four stages of the appeals process for SSDI/SSI claims:

• Reconsideration: After an initial SSD claim is denied, the first level of appeal is a reconsideration. A different Social Security Administration (SSA) representative reviews the original application. You can and should submit supplement evidence at this time.
• ALJ Hearing: If the reconsideration is denied, the next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). An attorney can represent you during the hearing.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ also denies the claim, the claimant can appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council. The appeals council may or may not agree to hear your case.
• Federal Lawsuit: The final stage of the appeals process is a lawsuit. Once all other remedies are exhausted, you have the right to file a lawsuit for your Social Security disability benefits.

Why Trust the Pennsylvania Social Security Disability Lawyers at Merit Disability

Social Security disability claims are complicated. Trying to navigate the claims process on your own could put you in a very difficult position. At Merit Disability, our attorneys provide the right advocacy. What we do is empower clients and help them fight for the absolute maximum benefits. Along with other things, our Pennsylvania Social Security disability lawyer is ready to:

• Hear what you have to say and answer your most pressing questions;
• Gather relevant evidence, including vocational records and medical records;
• Handle all of the Social Security disability paperwork; and
• Take proactive steps to help you secure the absolute maximum benefits.

Contact Our Pennsylvania Social Security Disability Attorney Today

At Merit Disability, our Pennsylvania Social Security disability lawyer provides high quality legal advocacy to clients. If you have any questions about Social Security disability claims or Social Security disability appeals, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free review of your case. We provide Social Security disability representation throughout Pennsylvania, including in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Harrisburg, Erie, Scranton, Altoona, Lancaster, and Bethlehem.