Topsail Island Social Security Disability Lawyer
Social Security Disability Attorney in Topsail Island, NC
Being disabled can make it difficult, or even impossible, to keep your financial affairs in order and stay afloat. That is why United States citizens have the opportunity to collect Social Security disability benefits when a mental or physical disability inhibits them from working for an extended period. Getting approved for benefits can be difficult. If you live on Topsail Island, contact a seasoned Topsail Island Social Security Disability lawyer for help.
Christina Rivenbark & Associates – Your Topsail Island Social Security Disability Lawyer
At Christina Rivenbark & Associates, we have over 35 years of experience advocating for our clients with empathy, understanding, and competence. When our clients come to us for help, we are fully aware of what they stand to lose. No matter what challenges you are facing, we stand ready to help you meet them head-on.
Disability in the United States and North Carolina
Approximately 28.7% of Americans have a disability of some kind, and many of those people are either unable to work or face severe restrictions. In North Carolina, the statistical picture mirrors the rest of the country. The most recent data for the state is from 2022. In that year, 26.3% of adults in North Carolina under the age of 44 were living with a disability.
What Is Social Security Disability?
Social Security Disability is insurance for disabled Americans who cannot work. It is a national program, and the money for benefits comes out of the national Social Security fund. Most American workers pay into this fund each year as part of their payroll taxes. When a person receives Social Security Disability benefits, they may get a monthly check, Medicare insurance, or both.
Who Can Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?
Anyone who has a significant disability that prevents them from working may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. However, a legitimate disability is not the only criterion. Income restrictions also apply. You may qualify for benefits if the following statements are true:
- You have a diagnosed and documented mental or physical disability, and that disability prevents you from working enough to support yourself.
- You do not have significant income. Your individual income cannot exceed $1,690 per month, or $2,830 if you are blind.
- You have significant work history. To qualify, you must have worked for five of the past 10 years. These years need not be consecutive. If you are under the age of 24, you may qualify with less work history.
Why Might a Social Security Disability Claim Be Denied?
The process of applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be rather complicated, so it is not surprising that claims are routinely denied. This can happen for a diverse list of reasons. A few of these are as follows:
- You make too much money: Income limits are strictly enforced, so your claim will be denied if you make too much money.
- You do not have a qualifying disability: Technically, having a disability is not enough to qualify you for Social Security Disability benefits. To be approved, you must show that your disability prevents you from working, that the diagnosis is confirmed, and that you have complied with medical advice regarding treatment. Additionally, you must demonstrate that your medical condition is unlikely to improve for at least a year.
- You did not submit enough documentation: Social Security Disability applications require extensive documentation of your medical condition, as well as proof of your financial status. If something is missing, your claim may be automatically denied.
- You are disabled because of active alcohol or drug abuse: While alcoholism or drug abuse can certainly cause disability, you cannot receive disability benefits if you would not otherwise be disabled.
Why You Should Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer
If you are applying for Social Security Disability benefits or if you are appealing a recent denial, it is a good idea to hire a Social Security Disability lawyer to assist you. A lawyer with in-depth knowledge of social security laws can help you anticipate any problems with your application or documents. If you have already applied and received a denial, your attorney can review your application and help you through the appeal process.
FAQs
Where Is the Nearest Social Security Disability Office for Topsail Island?
If you need to speak to someone in person about your Social Security Disability application or benefits, you should stop into the nearest Social Security Administration office to you. For residents of Topsail Island, the closest location is in Whiteville, at 204 South Lee Street. Another option is the office in New Bern, located at 1420 McCarthy Boulevard, although that is a significantly longer trip.
Can I Try to Return to Work While on Disability?
Yes, you can attempt a return to work while approved for Social Security Disability benefits. The income restrictions still apply, so if you make more than the income cap when you go back to work, no matter how many hours you work, you won’t receive a disability check for that month. Your Medicare benefits will remain in force.
When Does Medicare Coverage Begin on Social Security Disability?
Medicare coverage starts two years after the date someone becomes disabled in the vast majority of cases. However, some people qualify for Medicare sooner based on their disabilities. People with ALS can get Medicare coverage immediately once they qualify for Disability benefits. People with end-stage kidney disease can get Medicare three months after they begin outpatient dialysis, when they get a kidney transplant, or when they begin in-home dialysis.
Can I Still Qualify if I Am Disabled but My Spouse Works?
Yes, you can still qualify for benefits even if your spouse works. When you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, only your income and work history are considered to determine your financial eligibility. Household income is not taken into consideration, so even if you have an able-bodied spouse who makes a full-time income, that is not a factor in your application decision.
Contact Christina Rivenbark & Associates Today
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be a harrowing process. The application is complicated, and a denial can be quite stressful. If you are considering applying for benefits or if you need to appeal a denial, a competent attorney may make all the difference for you. Contact Christina Rivenbark & Associates today to find out how we can help you.
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