Springfield Social Security Lawyer

Social Security Attorney In Springfield

The intricacies of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) create challenging situations for Springfield, Tennessee, residents. A large number of Springfield residents depend on these benefits, which makes it vital to understand the application process and how legal representation can improve your outcome. A Springfield Social Security lawyer can explain these intricacies.

Why Choose Us?

Every Social Security Disability case handled by Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC benefits from our team’s four decades of accumulated legal experience. Our firm can assist Springfield, TN, residents and people throughout Middle Tennessee in obtaining the benefits they rightfully deserve. Our team knows how stressful the disability claims process is, so we deliver customized, compassionate representation to fit each client’s individual needs.

The diligent team at Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC has established a history of successful cases while maintaining strong local connections and deep knowledge of SSDI and SSI laws. We can offer full support for your case, from the initial application through appeals. Let our experience work for you.

Understanding SSI and SSDI in Tennessee

SSDI and SSI represent federal initiatives that deliver financial support to disabled individuals. SSDI requires a work history with Social Security tax payments, whereas SSI supports people with restricted income and resources through need-based assistance. To qualify for these programs, applicants must fulfill particular medical and non-medical standards established by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

The initial approval rate for benefit applications across the nation stands at 37 percent, while the appeals process takes about two years to finalize. The initial approval rate for benefits applications from homeless individuals who cannot seek assistance is only about 10-15 percent.

Applicants need to learn about the local judicial system to succeed. The Circuit Court, together with the Criminal Court and Chancery Court, operates from the Robertson County Courthouse at 501 S. Main St., Room 109, in Springfield, TN 37172. Applicants can find the General Sessions Court Clerk’s office at 529 S. Brown St., Springfield, TN 37172. These legal bodies manage multiple types of legal cases as well as disability claim procedures.

Types of Social Security Benefits

Most people generally associate Social Security with retirement benefits. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) actually provides four main types of benefits: retirement, disability, dependents, and survivors’ benefits. These programs provide essential monetary aid to people who have contributed to the system during their careers, along with their relatives.

Retirement Benefits

Workers can receive Social Security retirement benefits if they earn sufficient credits from covered employment, which generally requires at least 10 years of work where they paid FICA or SECA taxes. Retirement benefits become available starting at age 62, but choosing this early option results in smaller payments.

Full retirement benefits require waiting until you reach your full retirement age, which is 67 for those born in 1960 or later. Your monthly benefit grows at a small rate each year if you choose to delay claiming until age 70. Your retirement benefit varies with your career earnings history and work duration, while annual adjustments account for changes in living expenses.

Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits may be available for individuals who cannot work because of a serious medical condition before reaching full retirement age. The program assists those who meet recent work requirements and whose medical impairment will persist for at least one year or cause death.

Your benefit amount usually matches the total retirement benefit you would otherwise receive. SSDI provides essential support for people and their families who face unexpected work limitations.

Family Benefits

Having Social Security retirement or disability benefits may also qualify certain family members for family benefits. Spouses who are 62 years old or older, along with those responsible for children younger than 16, qualify for benefits that depend on the worker’s Social Security record.

Family members who are minors or became disabled before turning 22 can qualify for benefits. The program reduces economic pressure for families who rely on a single worker’s earnings.

Survivors Benefits

Survivors’ benefits are available for the spouse and dependents of a deceased person, including their children. Widows and widowers may begin to collect benefits when they reach 60 years old (or 50 years old if they are disabled). Surviving same-sex spouses and long-term partners who couldn’t marry legally before marriage equality became law may receive these earnings-based benefits, similar to other survivors.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Most a Social Security Lawyer Can Charge?

A: The Social Security Administration sets attorney fees at 25% of past-due benefits and changes maximum amounts annually. Your litigation award directly pays this fee if you win your case. Attorneys can charge clients for necessary out-of-pocket expenses, but these charges must remain reasonable and be communicated clearly at the beginning of the case.

Q: When Should You Hire a Social Security Lawyer?

A: It is advisable to hire a Social Security lawyer before you submit your first application to improve your chances of approval. A lawyer can verify that your documents are correct and complete, which can improve your likelihood of being approved. The denial of benefits makes attorney representation vital, especially during the reconsideration or hearing phases of the appeals process.

Q: What Are the Odds of Winning a Disability Case With a Lawyer?

A: Your odds of winning a disability case increase significantly with legal representation. Individuals who hire lawyers have a much higher likelihood of winning at the hearing phase compared to unrepresented applicants. Legal professionals possess detailed knowledge about SSA requirements. They can also present medical evidence and cross-examine professional witnesses at hearings.

Q: Do I Need a Lawyer to Apply for Social Security Benefits?

A: You are not legally required to have a lawyer to apply for Social Security benefits, but it is highly recommended. An attorney can manage your application to meet SSA standards. They can also assist in collecting strong medical documentation and handling all interactions with the SSA. You will find this assistance particularly valuable when dealing with intricate medical conditions or after your initial claim gets rejected.

Contact Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC Today

The Social Security process can be hard work. An attorney at Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC can represent you throughout your case. Contact us today to arrange a consultation.