Social Security Disability Lawyer Serving Ellensburg, WA

A serious health condition could keep you out of work for a long time. Thankfully, there’s Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), but many people get their claim denied. You can appeal, but the process can be complex, and you have to meet key deadlines and gather the right supporting documents.

The attorneys at Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC can help. We know how the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews claims and can guide you through an appeal. We’ve helped working families all over Kittitas County since 1954 and have a strong reputation for fighting for the little guy.

To speak with qualified Social Security Disability lawyers serving Ellensburg, WA, contact our Washington law offices today. Consultations are free, and you don’t pay unless we win.

Common Reasons SSD/SSDI Claims Get Denied

The most common causes of SSDI claim denials by the Social Security Administration include:

Lack of Work Credits: Your SSDI claim could be denied because you do not have enough work history to qualify for benefits.
Insufficient Medical Evidence: If your medical records fail to show you have a serious condition or there are gaps in your treatment, your claim can be denied.
Condition Not Severe Enough: Your condition may not restrict you from working or last the required 12 months minimum to qualify for coverage.
Earning Too Much Income: For those still able to work, crossing the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold could make you ineligible for SSDI.
Inconsistent or Incorrect Information: Problems with your work history, submitted documentation, or missed deadlines can all be used to deny your claim.
Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment: Claims can be denied if you missed medical visits, didn’t take your medication, or failed to follow your doctor’s orders.

Why You Need a Social Security Disability Lawyer: Timelines, Monthly Benefits, and Back Pay

By working with an SSDI attorney serving Ellensburg, you’ll experience a number of benefits while you deal with the Social Security Administration:

A Lawyer Understands How the SSA Evaluates Conditions: Your attorney knows what the SSA is looking for, and can keep these guidelines in mind while building your case.
An Attorney Can Translate Your Injury Into Work Limitations: Your lawyer can demonstrate how your symptoms affect your ability to work safely and effectively.
A Lawyer Can Help Compile the Necessary Medical Evidence: An attorney will help you get all the key information you need for the initial filing or appeal.
An Attorney Can Help with Filing Deadlines and Paperwork: Your lawyer can help keep appeals files within deadlines and avoid other serious errors.
A Lawyer Can Improve Your Chances During the Appeal Process: Appeals can be difficult, and having a skilled attorney on your side can improve your odds of success.

How the Disability Appeals Process Works in Washington: Timelines, Monthly Benefits, and Back Pay

The following is just a general guideline of the SSDI appeals process. Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC can offer a more detailed overview as we work together to secure your benefits.

How Long Does a Disability Claim Take in Washington?

The timeline for an SSDI claim depends on numerous factors, especially if you have to go through an appeal. For most people, the process takes more than six months.

You may be able to speed up the claim process through either of the following:

If I’m Denied, How Many Times Can I Appeal?

You can appeal a denied SSDI claim up to four times. Here are your escalating options for appeal after the initial denial of the claim:

Reconsideration: Reconsideration requests must be submitted within 60 days of the initial denial and are reviewed by a Disability Determination Services examiner.
Hearing: A hearing with an administrative law judge must be requested within 60 days of your reconsideration decision following another denial.
Hearing Review: A hearing review must be requested within 60 days of the initial hearing following another denial. This is handled by the Appeals Council.
Federal District Court Action: If the Appeals Council issues you another denial, you have 60 days to file a Federal District Court review. This is your last opportunity to secure benefits.

Five-Month Waiting Period with One Exception

For SSDI benefits, there is a five-month waiting period that begins the first full month after the SSA decides the disability began. Benefit payments will start during the sixth month of disability.

However, there is no waiting period if your disability is caused by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and you get approved for SSDI benefits on or after July 23, 2020.

How Much Back Pay Can I Receive?

Depending on when your disability began and your supporting documentation, you may be eligible for up to 12 months of SSDI back pay. This lump-sum retroactive payment is separate from ongoing SSDI payments.

What Evidence Matters Most for Winning Disability Benefits

Certain evidence is crucial when filing an SSDI claim or appeal. This includes:

Detailed medical records, including X-rays, test results, diagnoses, and your treatment compliance history
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form, which measures what you can do mentally and physically despite your medical diagnosis
A statement from your doctor about your health condition
A personal statement that discusses changes in daily activities, levels of pain, and feelings of fatigue
Evidence that you tried to get back to work but were unable to do so
Supporting statements from family, friends, co-workers, and supervisors

How Our SSD/SSDI Lawyers Help the People of Ellensburg

If you run into any issues with the Social Security Administration, you need Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC on your side. Our SSDI lawyers have helped people in Ellensburg and nearby communities get the benefits they need.

We know how important it is to be able to recover and get the help you need. Our attorneys fight for the underdog and are working people just like you.

Se Habla Español: Legal Services in Spanish

Our law offices have attorneys and staff who speak Spanish. This allows us to best serve Spanish speakers throughout Kittitas County. We can also translate for family members who need updates.

Our Attorneys Can Accommodate Your Disability and Schedule

If you’re not able to travel, don’t worry. Our lawyers can come see you in Ellensburg, wherever is most convenient. Our firm wants to make sure you get sound legal guidance and the answers you need about your best options.

If We Don’t Win, You Don’t Pay

When you’re waiting on SSDI payments, you probably don’t want to see another bill. That’s why we offer free consultations and representation on a contingency fee basis. Simply put: you only pay if we can win.

Contact Our Ellensburg SSD/SSDI Attorneys Near You

Don’t take on the SSA alone. Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC is here to help working people all over Kittitas County with their claim. We’re on your side and ready to listen. For a free consultation with our Social Security Disability lawyers serving Ellensburg, contact our law firm today.