Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits exist to help people who are no longer able to work because of a physical or mental disability. However, determining if you qualify for these benefits can be complicated.
Even if you’ve paid into the system your entire working life, the application process is full of obstacles, including technical rules, documentation hurdles, and strict definitions of disability that leave many people denied. It’s typical to get a denial when first applying. That’s why it’s critical to get professional legal guidance.
If you live in Shreveport and are struggling to get approved for Social Security Disability benefits, our team at Dudley DeBosier understands the complex requirements of SSD applications and appeals.
Whether you’re a healthcare worker from LSU Health Shreveport or Willis-Knighton facing career-ending injuries, a casino employee dealing with work-related disabilities, or a civilian contractor from the Barksdale area navigating complex disability requirements, we’re here to help you get the benefits you’ve already paid for.
How Our Social Security Disability Lawyers Can Help
Getting SSD benefits often feels like trying to prove the impossible, especially when you’re already dealing with the emotional toll of illness. That’s why having a knowledgeable disability lawyer can make all the difference.
Here’s what we do for clients who are applying for SSD in Shreveport:
- Assistance With Your Initial Social Security Disability Application: As we mentioned, most SSD claims are denied the first time around. Usually, that’s due to missing information or improper documentation. We can help you complete your application correctly and completely from the get-go.
- Gathering Sufficient Medical Evidence: Our team will collaborate with your healthcare providers to collect all medical documentation, test results, and professional assessments that demonstrate your disability’s impact on your ability to work. We can work closely with specialists throughout the Shreveport medical community, including physicians at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, Willis-Knighton Medical Center, and CHRISTUS Health Shreveport-Bossier to ensure your medical documentation meets Social Security Administration (SSA) requirements.
- Coordinating With Local Resources: We’ll help connect you with disability evaluation services in the Shreveport area and guide you to the Shreveport SSA office on S Pointe Parkway for any required appointments.
- Filing an Appeal If Your Claim Is Denied: Don’t give up if your claim is denied. You have the right to appeal, and most people who eventually receive SSD benefits had to go through at least one round of appeals. We’ll handle the paperwork, meet deadlines, and strengthen your case to make the appeals process much easier for you.
- Representation at SSD Hearings: If your appeal goes to a hearing before an administrative law judge, we’ll represent you at the hearing. We’ll prepare your testimony, question any expert witnesses, and aggressively argue your case.
Is Your SSD Application Correct?
It’s easy to make a small mistake on your SSD application. Unfortunately, small mistakes when filing for SSD can lead to significant setbacks. That’s why it’s critical to understand what the SSA is looking for.
Understanding Disability Criteria
The SSA’s definition of disability states that your condition must prevent you from doing any substantial activity and must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You can review their official list of impairments on the SSA’s website.
For residents of Caddo Parish and surrounding areas, we understand how local employment conditions affect disability determinations. Whether your disability stems from healthcare positions at our regional medical centers, work in the casino industry, manufacturing jobs along the I-20 corridor, or civilian positions supporting Barksdale Air Force Base, we know how to present your case effectively.
Understanding SSDI and SSI
Here are the two main types of disability benefits:
- SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): This is for individuals who have worked and paid into the system through payroll taxes. You must have earned a certain number of work credits, varying based on age.
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income): This program is based on financial need and is available to people with limited income and resources. Work history is not considered for SSI. Find out about income and asset limits here.
Understanding Common Reasons for Denial
There is a staggering number of denials at the initial stage, including more than half of applicants. Here’s why:
- Incomplete Applications: Missing information, unanswered questions, or vague responses can all lead to a quick denial.
- Technical Reasons: You may not meet the work credit or income requirements, or the SSA may believe you can still do some type of work.
- Medical Reasons: If your condition isn’t well-documented, doesn’t match the list of impairments, or lacks sufficient medical evidence, your application may be rejected.
We help clients avoid these pitfalls by building strong, accurate applications.
Compensation Available Through SSD
SSD benefits exist to provide ongoing financial support to those who cannot work. If you qualify, you may receive:
- Monthly Disability Benefits: These are based on your average lifetime earnings and can help cover your basic living expenses.
- Backpay: If your disability began before your application was approved, you may be entitled to retroactive payments going back to your official disability onset date.
- Medicare or Medicaid Eligibility: SSDI recipients are eligible for Medicare after two years, and SSI recipients may qualify for Medicaid immediately after approval.
These benefits can offer a crucial lifeline for individuals struggling to pay for housing, food, transportation, and medical care.
Contact Dudley DeBosier Today
Applying for SSD benefits is rarely a quick and easy process, but with Dudley DeBosier on your side, you don’t have to face it alone. Our experienced Shreveport SSD lawyers know how to cut through the red tape, avoid common mistakes, and build a compelling case for the benefits you deserve.
We combine legal expertise with a compassionate, client-focused approach. We know what it’s like to feel uncertain about your future, and that’s no way to live. We’re here to provide clarity, guidance, and aggressive advocacy every step of the way.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact us today for a free consultation.
