Social Security Attorneys in Camdenton, MO

Having a disability makes it difficult to work and even more challenging to maintain financial independence. For seniors and disabled people who are unable to work, Social Security is like a safety net. It is a federal social insurance program that provides monthly cash benefits when needed. Social Security programs include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, receiving Social Security benefits can be a complicated process.

There are many cases in which claims are initially rejected by the Social Security Administration (SSA). If your initial application for SSDI or SSI has been denied, do not be discouraged. Contact a Social Security attorney in Camdenton at Deputy & Mizell, L.L.C. before and after submitting your claim.

How Our Camdenton, MO Disability Lawyers Can Help

As you can tell, the application and appeals process can be extremely frustrating and time-consuming. Hiring a Missouri Social Security attorney can help make the process easier. The SSDI and SSI lawyers at Deputy & Mizell, L.L.C. will make sure that you are prepared for everything. Even though the appeals process may take over a year, we regularly speak with our clients and update medical records, medical source statements, third-party function reports, and other documents that will help you receive benefits. Furthermore, before your hearing, we have an in-depth meeting where we ask you most of the questions you will be asked at the final disability hearing. You will feel comfortable every step of the way with us.

If your SSDI or SSI application is initially denied but later you win your hearing or appeal, you will receive a calculated amount of past-due benefits that will make up for the months when the SSA should have been paying you.

To help you get your benefits as quickly and efficiently as possible, our Social Security lawyers in Camdenton will:

• Determine whether you are eligible for Social Security benefits
• Help you fill out the application paperwork
• Gather and submit supporting documentation regarding your medical condition
• File an appeal on your behalf, if necessary
• Represent you before an Administrative Law Judge should your case require a hearing
• File a lawsuit on your behalf to obtain the benefits to which you are entitled

Social Security Cases We Handle: The Difference Between SSDI and SSI

Claimants often confuse Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. SSDI supports individuals who are disabled and have a qualifying work history. SSI is a need-based federal program that pays monthly benefits to adults and children who are disabled, totally or partially blind, or at least age 65 and have limited income/resources. While both SSDI and SSI programs offer cash benefits for disabled individuals, the financial eligibility requirements are very different.

Social Security Disability: If you have been unable to work a full-time job for 12 months because of a disabling medical illness or injury or are expected to be unable to work for 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI benefits. Benefits are available to individuals who accumulated 40 work credits with 20 of those credits earned in the last 10 years and ending with the year you became disabled. If you have worked 5 out of the last 10 years, you likely have enough work credits to qualify for disability benefits, however, there are exceptions.

Supplemental Security Income: Adults and children with a disability or blindness who have limited income and resources can receive SSI benefits. SSI payments are also made to people aged 65 and older without disabilities who meet the financial qualifications. To qualify on the basis of a disability, your condition must meet the strict criteria of the SSA’s listings of impairments or prevent you from performing your past work and from adjusting to other work.

The Importance of Local Representation for Missouri Social Security Disability Claims

Choosing a law firm with deep roots in Missouri can significantly impact the success of your Social Security Disability claim. At Deputy & Mizell, we understand the unique challenges faced by local residents navigating the Social Security Administration’s complex system. Our familiarity with Missouri’s disability determination process, local medical providers, and regional Social Security offices allows us to advocate more effectively on your behalf.

Beyond our legal expertise, we bring a personalized approach to every disability claim. We take the time to understand not just your medical conditions, but how they affect your daily life and ability to work. With Deputy & Mizell, you’re not just another disability claim—you’re a valued member of our Camdenton community deserving of support during this challenging time. We’re committed to guiding you through each step of the process, from initial application to appeals if necessary, while providing clear communication and compassionate support. By choosing local representation, you select attorneys who truly understand the regional healthcare landscape and are genuinely invested in securing the benefits you need to maintain your quality of life.

How to Apply for Disability in Camdenton, MO

To be eligible for Social Security benefits, you must have a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of a disability, which is different from other government programs. The SSA considers you eligible for disability benefits if you are unable to do the work that you did before you became disabled, you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s), and your disability is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.

The steps to apply for disability are as follows:

1. File an initial application – It typically takes 90 to 120 days for the SSA to review your claim and either approve or deny your application. Approximately only 30 percent of Social Security disability applications are approved at this stage.
2. If denied, request reconsideration – You have 60 days to file a Request for Reconsideration in which the SSA will review your application again. This process takes approximately three to six months.
3. If still denied after reconsideration, request a hearing – If denied again, you must appeal and request a disability hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Oftentimes claimants will have to wait approximately two years before they have their hearing. After the hearing, you will either receive a favorable, partially favorable, or unfavorable decision within six months.
4. If you don’t agree with the decision, bring it to the Appeals Council – You have the right to appeal the decision made at the hearing level. The review by the Appeals Council usually takes between six months to one year until completion. Fewer than five percent of Social Security Disability cases are won at this stage of the appeals process.
5. If denied by the Appeals Council, appeal to the Federal District Court – You may appeal your case again. The Federal District Court may approve or deny your claim for Social Security Disability benefits or they may send your case back to the SSA for further review.

Why Choose Deputy & Mizell’s Social Security Disability Attorneys?

Our firm’s extensive experience with Social Security Disability claims in Camdenton and its surrounding areas makes us uniquely qualified to handle your case. We understand the Social Security Administration’s complex regulations and the local disability determination process, and we have developed successful strategies to navigate these challenging claims effectively.

Our team’s commitment to personalized service ensures you’ll receive dedicated support tailored to your situation. Here’s how we can help you build a strong disability claim:

• Thorough Documentation – Gathering comprehensive medical evidence and employment records to support your case
• Claims Development – Working with your healthcare providers to properly document your conditions and limitations
• Application Assistance – Helping you avoid common pitfalls that lead to denials
• Appeals Experience – Successfully representing clients at all levels of appeal, including Administrative Law Judge hearings
• Local Knowledge – Understanding regional medical providers and Social Security offices throughout Missouri

We believe that every disabled individual deserves strong legal representation. At Deputy & Mizell, we’re here to guide you through this complex process, letting you focus on your health while we handle the intricate legal and administrative work.

Contact Our Camdenton, MO Disability Attorneys Today

If you are disabled and are considering applying for benefits or have already applied and had your application denied, contact the Social Security lawyers at Deputy & Mizell, L.L.C. today.