Trusted Disability Lawyers in South Jersey
Rebel Brown Law Group has been serving residents of the South Jersey community since 2008. With over 50 years of combined experience, our attorneys understand what it takes to provide compassionate guidance to those navigating the Social Security system.
If you’re struggling to obtain Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), reach out to our experienced disability attorneys. We provide free consultations and charge on a contingency basis, meaning you owe nothing upfront.
Call us today at (856) 881-5000 to set up your free case consultation.
Hiring an SSDI Lawyer in South Jersey
The road to receiving disability benefits can be challenging and stressful. Unfortunately, a single mistake in your application materials can lead to years of lost benefits.
This is why having a lawyer on your side is such a crucial resource. The attorneys at Rebel Brown Law Group have a deep understanding of the legal system, and we understand the care and attention it takes to navigate the application process.
We take care of everything, from organizing your case and submitting applications to helping you secure medical records and representing you in reconsideration hearings. Whether you’re living with a long-term disability or are facing a new condition, our attorneys are here to help you get the support you need.
Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis for all disability cases. This means that you won’t owe anything up-front, and you will only be charged if the Social Security Administration (SSA) grants you benefits.
What Qualifies as Proof of Disability?
The SSA determines disability using 3 key pieces of criteria. To be considered disabled, you must:
- Be unable to continue doing the work you did prior to your disability if you worked previously
- Be unable to pursue other work because of your disability
- Expect that your disabling condition will last at least 12 months
In some cases, you may be able to continue working while applying for SSDI. However, you typically need to be earning less than $1,350 a month for your application to be processed.
Do I Qualify For Disability Assistance?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is an insurance program designed to assist anyone who qualifies for disability and has been contributing to Social Security taxes through their paychecks.
To qualify for SSD benefits, you must have worked at least one year out of every four years you were eligible to work after turning 21. If you are 31 or older, you must have worked at least 20 years out of every 40 eligible years of work before becoming disabled. This is known as the 20/40 rule, and working for at least 5 out of the last 10 years usually qualifies you.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
If you’re disabled but have been unable to work for a significant amount of time, you can usually apply for SSI. SSI is a welfare program that provides benefits for disabled people, children, and people over the age of 65 that need financial assistance.
In some cases, you may qualify for both SSI and SSDI, although the process of applying for both programs is more complex. Our attorneys can review your case and determine whether you’re a good candidate for one or both of these programs.
A Walk Through the Social Security Process
Below, we’ve outlined the various steps that must be completed to be considered for disability benefits.
- Applying For Benefits
The first step in requesting Social Security disability benefits is completing an initial application. Once we submit the application, you’ll typically receive a decision within 3 to 5 months. Unfortunately, 90% of applicants are initially denied, which makes having an attorney all the more important. - Reconsideration of Benefits
If you are denied benefits, we’ll help you file a Request for Reconsideration for the SSA to re-review your application. At this stage, they may request updated medical records or a medical examination. About 15% of applicants are approved during the reconsideration process. - Hearing
If you are denied benefits during the reconsideration process, we will request a hearing with an administrative law judge on your behalf. During this hearing, we will discuss your case and present any relevant medical evidence. It typically takes 18 to 24 months to receive a hearing date. - Appeals Council Review
If you are denied benefits after your hearing, we can help you submit your case for review by the Appeals Council. An Appeal Council Review is typically a last resort effort. It’s most useful for situations in which we believe the law has been ignored or misinterpreted despite substantial evidence on your behalf. - Expediting
Unfortunately, the benefits process can be very lengthy. If you reach the hearing stage and are in dire need of assistance, we can request the SSA to expedite your case. This allows your case to be seen faster if your basic needs, like food, shelter, and medical care, are in jeopardy.
We understand just how complex it can be to provide the SSA with the right forms and documentation. That’s why our law firm works to take the stress and uncertainty out of the entire application and appeals process.
Can I Afford a Social Security Lawyer?
Many people with disabilities wonder how they will afford an attorney to assist with the benefits process. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration regulates attorney fees to ensure legal representation is affordable for everyone who needs it.
You can start working with an attorney as soon as you need help, and you won’t owe anything upfront. Once you are awarded Social Security benefits, your attorney will charge at most 25% of your back-pay benefits or $7,200, whichever is less. Your bill will be paid out to your attorney directly from the benefit payments. You won’t owe anything unless the SSA grants you disability benefits.
Schedule a Free Social Security Disability Consultation
If you’re seeking Social Security disability benefits, or if you’ve been previously denied benefits, turn to the team at Rebel Brown Law Group, LLC. Our attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience helping local residents earn the South Jersey Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income they need.
Call us today at (856) 485-0062 to set up your free consultation at our Glassboro or Hadden Heights law offices.
Disclaimer: This page is intended solely to offer information about the law, and it should not be used as legal advice.
