Social Security Disability Lawyer in Pasco, WA

When a serious health condition affects your ability to work, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can offer a chance at dignity during a difficult time. But what if your SSDI claim gets denied? That’s when you need to work with an attorney who can guide you through the appeal process with the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC is up to the challenge. Our lawyers have fought for working families all over Franklin County since 1954. We represent the underdog who may feel unheard or underserved. We’re here to listen and to advocate for you.

If you need to speak with a Social Security disability lawyer in Pasco and the Tri-Cities, contact our law firm today. Consultations are free, and you don’t pay unless we win.

Why Your SSD/SSDI Claim May Have Been Denied

Here are just a few common reasons why the Social Security Administration may have denied your SSDI claim.

• Lack of Work Credits: You may not have enough work credits or enough work history to qualify for SSDI.
• Condition Not Severe Enough: Your condition needs to last a minimum of 12 months and prevent you from performing work duties to qualify for SSDI.
• Insufficient Medical Evidence: Your medical documents may not support your claim that you have a serious illness or health condition that prevents you from working.
• Earning Too Much Income: For those who can still earn income, passing the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold will mean ineligibility for SSDI.
• Inconsistent or Incorrect Information: Missing a deadline, providing inaccurate work history, or failing to include the proper documentation can cause a denial of claim.
• Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment: SSA can deny claims if a person fails to follow their doctor’s orders, misses appointments, or does not take their medication.

Why You Need a Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you have an issue with the Social Security Administration, having our Tri-Cities and Pasco SSDI lawyers on your side has numerous benefits.

• An Attorney Knows How the SSA Evaluates Conditions: Lawyers will know the requirements that SSA looks for when reviewing your diagnosis.
• A Lawyer Can Translate Your Injury Into Occupational Limitations: Attorneys know how to frame symptoms so they demonstrate difficulty doing your job.
• An Attorney Can Help You Compile the Necessary Medical Evidence: A lawyer will help you get all the key information you need for the initial filing or appeal.
• A Lawyer Can Help with Critical Filing Deadlines and Paperwork: An attorney can make sure your claim or appeal is filed on time and correctly.
• An Attorney Can Improve Your Odds During the Appeal Process: Appeals can be complicated, and having a good lawyer on your side can increase your chances of success.

What Happens During the SSD/SSDI Appeals Process: Timelines, Monthly Benefits, and Back Pay

Here is a general guideline of the SSDI appeals process. We can offer more detailed answers when you contact Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC for a free case review.

How Long Does an SSD/SSDI Claim Take in Washington?

This can vary from person to person, especially if they need to go through the appeals process. Generally, it takes six months or more to receive benefits.

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

• Quick Disability Determinations (QDD)
• Compassionate Allowances (CAL)

If I Am Denied, How Many Times Can I Appeal?

You can appeal a denied claim up to four times. These are the escalating appeal options to fight for your benefits:

• 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?

You can receive up to 12 months of SSDI back pay depending on when your disability started. This retroactive lump-sum payment is separate from ongoing SSDI benefits.

Key Evidence for Securing Your SSD/SSDI Benefits 

Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC can help you track down crucial evidence for your claim or appeal. This includes:

• Detailed medical documentation, including X-rays and test results, diagnoses, and 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 regarding the severity of your condition
• A personal statement that documents changes in your daily activities, sensations of fatigue, and levels of pain
• Evidence that you attempted to work but are unable to do so
• Supporting statements from family, friends, co-workers, and supervisors

How Our SSD/SSDI Lawyers Help Our Neighbors in Pasco and the Tri-Cities

If you need help with a matter involving the SSA, you need Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC. Our law firm has represented people in the Tri-Cities and Pasco for many years. Don’t let the suits intimidate you—we’re just regular folks like you who live in the area.

These cases can be complex, which is why you need someone who fights for underdogs every single day. Our attorneys are here to help fight the good fight.

Se Habla Español: Legal Services in Spanish

Some of our attorneys and team members speak Spanish. This allows us to better serve Spanish speakers in the Tri-Cities and Pasco. We can also answer questions for relatives who need to be looped in.

Our Team Can Accommodate Your Disability and Schedule

Injuries and illnesses can make travel difficult. That’s not a problem. Our lawyers can travel to see you. Wherever you may be in Franklin County, we can be there for you so that you can receive sound legal guidance.

If We Don’t Win, You Don’t Pay

Times are tight when you can’t work. We understand. That’s why we offer free case reviews and represent clients on a contingency fee basis. That means you only pay attorney fees if we don’t win.

Contact Our Pasco Social Security Disability Attorneys Near You

If you’ve run into any issues with the Social Security Administration and have questions about your claim, Calbom & Schwab Law Group, PLLC is here to provide answers. We’re always going to listen. For a free consultation with our Social Security Disability lawyers in Pasco, contact our Washington law offices today.