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Steps to Take After an SSD Denial or Application

Getting your benefits can be a challenging road — but following the proper steps and working with an experienced SSD lawyer will smooth the process.

  1. Apply or Appeal Promptly: File your claim with the SSA or submit your appeal within 60 days if denied, taking care to be as thorough as possible.
  2. Gather Medical Evidence: Strong medical evidence is the backbone of your claim. Request records from your doctors that clearly explain how your condition prevents work.
  3. Track Deadlines: Missing one step can derail your claim, so it’s vital that you stay on top of key deadlines during the application and appeal process.
  4. Don’t Give Up: Many folks think denials are the end of the road, but they’re not. Even if your application was denied, there’s still a path to SSD or SSDI benefits.
  5. Contact a Social Security Attorney: We’ll help you avoid common mistakes, clarify the process, and improve your chances at every stage.

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Types of Social Security Disability Claims We Handle

Social Security Disability comes in several forms and can cover a wide range of conditions. Rainwater, Holt & Sexton’s experienced lawyers handle all types of SSD claims, including:

SSDI is an insurance program for workers who become disabled. If you’ve paid into Social Security through payroll taxes (FICA) and earned enough work credits, you may qualify for SSDI benefits​.

SSDI is not income-based; instead, it’s based on your work history and the severity of your disability. Our attorneys can help determine if you meet the work credit requirements and guide you through the SSDI application process.

SSI is a needs-based program for people with disabilities (or those over 65) who have limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history or past contributions. It provides a modest monthly benefit for basic needs, and eligibility is based on strict financial criteria​.

We assist clients in Arkansas with SSI claims, ensuring all income and asset information is properly documented to maximize the chance of approval.

We help clients with a variety of physical disabilities that prevent them from working. These can include injuries (such as back injuries or orthopedic problems), chronic illnesses (like heart disease, diabetes, or cancer), neurological disorders (multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, etc.), and other medical conditions. To qualify, a physical impairment must be severe enough to significantly limit your ability to perform work activities for at least 12 months.

Our team understands the medical evidence needed to prove physical disabilities and will work with your healthcare providers to build a strong case.

Mental health conditions can be just as disabling as physical ones. Our firm is experienced in handling claims for mental impairments such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia, autism, and cognitive impairments, among others. To win these claims, it’s important to show the SSA how the condition severely impacts daily functioning and work ability.

We help gather psychiatric records, psychological evaluations, and opinions from treating providers to demonstrate the extent of mental impairments. If you or a loved one is facing a mental health-related disability, we approach your case with understanding and care.

What to Expect When You Hire Rainwater, Holt & Sexton

Our experienced team of SSD attorneys will treat you with kindness and respect while preparing the strongest possible claim on your behalf.

In our first meeting, we’ll listen to your story, review your SSD case, and offer legal guidance at no cost.

Our team will take care of all the paperwork and filings required for your SSD claim, meeting key deadlines and triple-checking for accuracy.

We’ll collect your medical records and coordinate with your healthcare providers to gather evidence that supports your claim.

If needed, our SSD lawyers will present your case before an administrative law judge and advocate for your rights to benefits.

We work tirelessly to get you the maximum benefits you’re entitled to — and our No Fee Guarantee® means you pay nothing unless we recover for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I qualify for SSDI?

To qualify for SSDI, you need a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. You must also have worked long enough and recently enough to earn sufficient work credits under Social Security. The number of credits needed depends on your age at the time of disability.

What’s the difference between SSDI and SSI?

SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you’ve paid over time. SSI, on the other hand, is a needs-based program for people with very limited income and assets, regardless of work history. You may qualify for one or both depending on your specific situation.

What if my SSD claim is denied?

If your claim is denied, you have 60 days to appeal. Most initial applications are denied, but many are later approved through the appeals process. Our skilled attorneys can help strengthen your case, gather more evidence, and represent you during a hearing, if needed.

Can I work while applying?

You can work part-time while applying for SSD, but your earnings must stay below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit set by the SSA. If you earn more than the SGA limit, your claim could be denied. We can help you understand the income limits and how they apply to your case.

How much does it cost to hire Rainwater, Holt & Sexton?

Hiring us costs nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case. Our fee is typically a percentage of the back pay you’re awarded, and it’s capped by federal law. Our No Fee Guarantee® keeps us on the same team from day one.

Get Your Social Security Benefits With Rainwater, Holt & Sexton

If you’re struggling with a disability claim, our experienced team of social security attorneys can help you apply, appeal, and win the benefits you’re entitled to. Get in touch with us today and tell us your story!
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