Guiding You Through the Process to Secure the Benefits You Deserve
If a medical condition prevents you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict requirements, and the application process can be complex, frustrating, and time-consuming. Many applicants face delays and denials, often because of missing medical evidence, errors in paperwork, or procedural mistakes. Martin and Lerda is committed to helping individuals file strong claims, navigate the Social Security system, and secure the benefits they are entitled to receive.
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)/Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) requires substantial documentation, including medical records, employment history, and functional limitations. Martin and Lerda provides experienced legal representation to ensure that applications are properly prepared and submitted, reducing the risk of denial and unnecessary delays. If a claim has already been denied, there are still options to correct errors, provide additional medical evidence, and pursue benefits through further review.
Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits
The SSA provides two main types of disability benefits:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI or SSD): Available to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but are now unable to work due to a qualifying disability.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): A needs-based program for individuals who do not have sufficient work history but have limited income and resources.
Both programs require that an applicant’s condition prevents them from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Many claims are denied simply because they do not meet SSA’s strict eligibility criteria or because the necessary medical evidence was not presented properly. Martin and Lerda ensures that applications accurately document the impact of a disability, increasing the likelihood of approval.
Qualifying Disabilities for Social Security Benefits
The SSA evaluates Social Security Disability claims based on medical conditions, work history, and the ability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). Qualifying disabilities include:
Mental Health Disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Severe depression and anxiety
- Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders
- Serious personality disorders
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Cognitive disabilities
Physical Disabilities
- Arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders
- Chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia
- Cardiovascular disease and heart failure
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma
- Cancer and hematological disorders
- Diabetes and complications affecting mobility
- Lupus and other autoimmune diseases
- Parkinson’s disease and neurological disorders
- Kidney disease and liver disease
- Degenerative disc disease and spinal injuries
- Muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis
Even if a condition is not explicitly listed, it may still qualify for benefits if it substantially impairs the ability to work. Many claims are denied due to incomplete medical evidence, which is why legal representation is essential in ensuring a claim meets SSA’s criteria.
How Martin and Lerda Helps with Social Security Disability Claims
Navigating the Social Security Disability process requires knowledge of SSA regulations, medical documentation requirements, and legal procedures. Martin and Lerda provides:
- Guidance on eligibility requirements and assistance in filing a strong initial claim.
- Collection and submission of medical evidence to support a disability claim.
- Direct communication with the SSA to handle requests for additional documentation.
- Preparation and filing of applications to ensure all necessary paperwork is completed correctly.
- Legal representation to challenge wrongful denials and ensure claims receive proper review.
Many applicants make small but critical mistakes when filing a claim, resulting in unnecessary delays and denials. Martin and Lerda ensures that applications are accurate, complete, and fully supported by medical documentation, increasing the likelihood of approval.
What to Do if Your Claim is Denied
A denial does not mean that benefits are out of reach. Many applicants receive approval after providing additional medical evidence, correcting errors, or submitting further documentation. The SSA provides opportunities for claimants to seek further review, but strict deadlines apply. Martin and Lerda assists in identifying why a claim was denied and takes the necessary steps to pursue the benefits clients are entitled to receive.
If a claim has been wrongfully denied, it is critical to take immediate action to prevent further delays in receiving benefits.
Why Choose Martin and Lerda for Your Social Security Disability Claim?
The Social Security Disability process is challenging, and many qualified applicants struggle to secure benefits without professional guidance. Martin and Lerda provides:
- Experienced legal support to ensure applications are properly prepared.
- Personalized guidance to help clients understand eligibility and SSA requirements.
- Strategic case-building to strengthen claims and avoid unnecessary denials.
Having legal representation significantly increases the chances of approval, particularly for individuals with complex medical conditions or those who need assistance presenting their case effectively. Martin and Lerda is committed to helping clients secure the benefits they deserve.
Start Your Social Security Disability Claim Today
Filing for Social Security Disability benefits can be overwhelming, but Martin and Lerda is here to help. Whether applying for the first time or seeking further review of a denied claim, legal guidance can make a difference in ensuring that benefits are received as quickly as possible.
Call (412) 271-6800 today to discuss your case and take the first step toward securing your benefits.
