Frequently Asked Questions

 

20.       How do I find an attorney to represent me before on my Social Security Disability claim?

You can contact Social Security Professionals and speak with Attorney Donald H. Peters in Michigan  for free at .  You can also contact the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) referral service. You may call NOSSCR at 1-800-431-2804.   You can also contact various Bar Associations for the name of an Attorney.

 

21.       If I am approved for Social Security Disability benefits, how much will I get?

For disability insurance benefits, it all depends upon how much you have worked and earned in the past.  For disabled widow's or widower's benefits, it depends upon how much the late husband or wife worked and earned.  For disabled adult child benefits, it all depends upon how much the parent worked and earned.  For all types of SSI benefits, there is a base amount that an individual with no other income receives.  Other income that an individual has reduces the amount of SSI which an individual can receive.

 

22.       How far back will they pay benefits if I am found disabled?

For Disability Insurance Benefits and for Disabled Widow's and Widower's Benefits, the benefits cannot begin until five months have passed after the person becomes disabled.  In addition, benefits cannot be paid more than one year prior to the date of the claim. For a Disabled Adult Child, there is no five-month waiting period before benefits begin, but benefits cannot be paid more than six months prior to the date of the claim.  SSI benefits cannot be paid prior to the start of the month following the date of the claim.

 

23.       What do I do if Social Security denies my claim for Social Security Disability benefits?

First, do not be upset or surprised. Only about 30 to 40% of Social Security Disability claims are approved at the initial level.  If you are denied at the initial level, unless you have already returned to work or expect to return to work in the near future, you should appeal.  In Michigan, you would file a Request for Hearing.  You should also consider employing an Attorney to represent you.

 

24.       Why does Social Security turn down so many claims for disability benefits?

There is no simple answer to this question.  One reason is that the file may be lacking in medical proofs.  Many claims will not only need the requisite medical records to help prove a claim, but the claim may need expert opinions from treating physicians.  Another reasons is that SSA is concerned with people filing fraudulent claims.  If SSA is going to pay benefits on your claim, SSA will require that you prove your claim.  An Attorney can help you do this.

 

25.       I only want to get back the money I put in Social Security. Why do they make it so hard for me to get my own money back?

Actually, when you file a Social Security Disability claim, you are not trying to just get "your own money" back. The money that an individual may have paid into Social Security over the years would not last very long if that was all that an individual could draw from Social Security.

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