Dealing with a disability can be challenging, especially if it affects your ability to work and support yourself and your loved ones. In this situation, you may be entitled to disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA) or other programs. However, pursuing these benefits alone can quickly become overwhelming, particularly when you are already facing the physical, emotional, and financial struggles that come with a disability. This is where an Omaha Social Security disability benefits attorney can make a significant difference in your life.

At Mueller Schmidt Mulholland & Cooling, we want to help you get the benefits you need and the peace of mind you deserve during this difficult time. Contact us today, online or by calling 402-999-9000, and discuss your options during a free consultation.

Understanding Disability Benefits

Disability benefits provide financial support to individuals unable to work due to a medical condition or impairment. The SSA provides two main types of disability benefits:

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) offers benefits to individuals who have a history of working and paying into Social Security through payroll taxes. To be eligible, you must have a medical condition that substantially prevents you from working and is expected by your doctor to either last at least a year or result in death.
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides financial assistance to people with limited income and resources who are either elderly, blind, or disabled. To qualify, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability and have income and assets that fall below certain established limits.

In addition to these federal programs, other disability benefits may be available through Nebraska’s Disabled Persons and Family Support program, your employer, or private insurance. An experienced Omaha disability benefits attorney can help you understand your options and determine which programs and resources you may be eligible for based on your specific circumstances.

The Challenges of Obtaining Disability Benefits

While disability benefits can provide much-needed financial support, obtaining them can be challenging. The SSA has strict criteria for determining disability, and roughly two-thirds of claims are denied. Some common reasons for denial include:

  • Insufficient medical evidence to support your disability claim
  • Failure to follow prescribed treatment or attend consultative examinations
  • Engaging in substantial gainful activity (earning above a certain threshold)
  • Having a condition that is not expected to last more than 12 months or result in death
  • Not meeting the SSA’s definition of disability

However, if SSA denies your initial application, you can appeal the decision. The appeals process can be lengthy and complex, involving multiple stages such as reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, and even federal court review. An Omaha disability benefits attorney can guide you through each stage of the process, protecting your rights and helping you seek the benefits you deserve under the law.

The Role of Medical Evidence in Disability Claims

Medical evidence is crucial to the success of your disability claim. The SSA relies heavily on your medical records, test results, and other documentation to determine the severity of your condition and its impact on your ability to work. To build a strong case, your Omaha disability benefits attorney will work closely with you to:

  • Gather all relevant medical records from your doctors, specialists, and hospitals
  • Obtain detailed statements from your treating physicians about your condition and limitations
  • Arrange for additional medical evaluations or tests, if necessary, to support your claim
  • Ensure that your medical evidence meets the SSA’s requirements and is presented in a clear and compelling manner

Your attorney will also help you navigate the complex medical-vocational rules the SSA uses to determine disability. These rules consider factors such as your age, education, work experience, and residual functional capacity (RFC) to assess whether you can perform any type of work in the national economy. By thoroughly understanding these rules and how they apply to your case, your attorney can build a strong argument for why you meet the SSA’s definition of disability.

Dealing with the Social Security Administration

Communicating with the SSA can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when you are already dealing with a challenging medical condition. An Omaha disability benefits attorney can handle all interactions with the SSA on your behalf, giving you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your application has been filed correctly, monitored, and updated as necessary. Your attorney will:

  • File your initial application and any necessary appeals
  • Communicate with SSA representatives and provide additional information or evidence as requested
  • Keep you informed of the status of your claim and any important deadlines
  • Prepare you for any interviews or hearings with the SSA
  • Represent you at all stages of the appeals process, including before an administrative law judge

By having an experienced advocate handle these elements for you, you can focus solely on your health and well-being.

The Mueller Schmidt Mulholland & Cooling Advantage

At Mueller Schmidt Mulholland & Cooling, we understand the challenges and frustrations of seeking disability benefits. Our experienced attorneys helped many people in Omaha and throughout Nebraska deal with the complex Social Security system and obtain the financial help they need to support themselves.

When you choose Mueller Schmidt Mulholland & Cooling to handle your disability claim, you can expect:

  • A free initial consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options
  • A thorough review of your medical records and other evidence to build a strong case on your behalf
  • Time-tested guidance through every stage of the application and appeals process
  • Compassionate support and personalized attention from a team of dedicated professionals
  • Aggressive advocacy to protect your rights and pursue the benefits you deserve

Contact Our Omaha Disability Rights Lawyers

If you are struggling with a medical condition that prevents you from working and need help obtaining the benefits you deserve, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mueller Schmidt Mulholland & Cooling. An experienced Omaha disability benefits attorney will guide you through the process, fight for your rights, and advocate for the financial support you need to move forward with your life. Take the first step today by calling us at 402-999-9000 to schedule your free initial consultation.