San Francisco & Benicia Social Security Disability Lawyer
A person with physical or mental impairments that impact their ability to work may be entitled to Social Security benefits. At the Law Office of Geri N. Kahn, we help clients navigate Social Security disability law towards a successful outcome. Located in San Francisco and Benicia, we support individuals with determining eligibility, completing a benefits application, attending hearings and filing appeals. When you need a determined Social Security disability attorney by your side, Geri Kahn is here to help.
Dedicated Disability Benefits Attorney
Hiring an experienced attorney is an important step in gaining disability benefits. To demonstrate this point, research from the U.S. Government Accountability Office found that claimants with representatives receive benefits at a level three times higher than those without representatives. Working with an experienced and committed Social Security disability lawyer ensures the many challenges to obtaining benefits can be overcome.
Social Security Disability Programs
There are two primary programs for disability benefits operated by the Social Security Administration (SSA). And while both these programs share many similarities, they are separated by certain factors such as eligibility requirements and the amount of benefits received.
Social Security Disability Insurance
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly benefits to people with a physical or mental disability that renders them unable to work a full-time job. SSDI is an earned benefit, with payment levels based on work credit earned through tax contributions. To qualify for SSDI, individuals must show their disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
In many cases, the SSDI process can take months or years for a successful resolution. Therefore, compiling all necessary documentation and applying for benefits should be done as soon as possible. As an experienced Social Security disability lawyer, Geri works with clients to obtain relevant medical records, prepare a strong case and meet necessary deadlines.
Supplemental Security Income
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides financial assistance to people with disabilities or aged 65 or older with limited income and resources. As with SSDI, you must show that the disability will impede your ability to work for more than 12 months. However, in contrast to the work credits requirement, SSI is means-tested to prove an individual has low or no income and resources.
Many people in San Francisco and Benicia rely on SSI for food, shelter and other essentials. However, negotiating the complex Social Security system (or getting a claim denied) can be incredibly stressful for those already experiencing difficult circumstances. But with the help of a dedicated Social Security disability lawyer like Geri, your case will get the attention it needs.
Social Security Disabled Adult Child Benefits
Our legal team can also assist with securing Social Security disability benefits for disabled adult children. Under Social Security law, a disabled adult child refers to a disabled person over the age of 18 who became disabled before the age of 22. Qualifying individuals can receive SSDI benefits for tax payments their parents made into the Social Security system. Determining eligibility and applying for these benefits can be overwhelming, but we can help you through this process.
Main Disability Lawyer Services Offered
Having worked with a wide range of clients to obtain Social Security benefits, we understand the challenges of making a claim. Whether you are applying for the first time or have been denied and want to appeal, Geri works tirelessly on your behalf. Here are some of the ways a disability lawyer can help.
- Understand a client’s physical or mental impairments.
- Collect medical records and other evidence.
- Build a case for a successful application.
- Question any witnesses and medical experts.
- Represent you at court hearings.
- File documents for appeal where required.
Common Questions About Social Security Disability Law
Will I need to pay taxes on the disability benefits I receive?
You may be required to pay federal taxes on any SSDI payment you receive depending on your income. You are not required to pay taxes on SSI benefits. You can find additional information here.
Can a disabled adult child still receive benefits if they get married?
To be eligible, a disabled adult child must be unmarried. Exceptions are sometimes made when both partners are disabled.
Can I still receive SSDI benefits with little or no work history?
Without building work credits, you may be ineligible for SSDI payments. However, your Social Security disability lawyer can look at your circumstances and make recommendations, including applying for SSI benefits.
Talk to a Social Security Disability Attorney in San Francisco and Benicia
The Law Office of Geri N. Kahn provides dedicated and compassionate legal guidance for those considering filing for disability. For help with filing an application and appealing a decision, contact us today. Call our San Francisco office at (415) 397-5446 or our Benicia office at (707) 746-1813. You may also request a legal consultation now.
