Galax, VA SSD Lawyer for Social Security Disability Applications & Appeals 

Galax, VA SSD LawyerSocial Security Disability (SSD) income can be a critical safety net for disabled individuals who have a physical or mental injury, illness, or condition that prevents them from working.  For workers who meet the work and other requirements established by the Social Security Administration (SSA), disability benefits include monthly income checks that continue so long as a disabling condition persists, up until retirement age (when retirement benefits will begin).

Most Social Security Benefit Claims Initially Are Denied

The SSA has strict requirements concerning approval of SSD claims, and unless all requirements are met, a claim must be denied, even if it appears that the applicant meets the medical qualifications for being considered disabled.  As a result, over 70% of initial claims are rejected.

In most cases, benefits would have been awarded if the applicant had provided all of the proper information.  Because of the SSA rules, however, when an application is denied, an applicant must go through an appeals process that can be lengthy, even if the reason for denial is a small technical matter.

As Galax Virginia SSD lawyers and social security attorneys, we are experienced in preparing and filing claims, and know how to present the requisite information that is usually required by the SSA.  With this knowledge, we have a much higher approval rate than applicants who choose to submit a claim without legal counsel.

Firm founding attorney Mark Hurt can assist in preparing the paperwork and documentation for the initial application, and if your claim has previously been denied, he can represent you in a reconsideration and an appeal hearing (if one is necessary).  Our team can also work with medical experts who can document your condition and offer testimony on your behalf.

Call Us for a Free Consultation and Learn How We Can Help

If you have questions concerning qualifying for benefits, whether you can return to work, appeal options, or the general application process, we invite you to call our office to schedule a free consultation.  If we represent you, we will only charge a fee if you win your SSD case.  Our fee is typically capped at 25% of the backpay amount or $6,000, whichever is less (we are not entitled to any fee for future benefit payments which are not yet due).

Because Our Fee is Relatively Low for Initial Filings, We Encourage All Applicants to Contact Us at the Outset of their Disability

When a person first becomes disabled, because of the waiting period, their “back pay” will be very limited.  Our fee, if a claim is successful, will only be 25% of that back pay.  And, if we are successful in the initial application, an applicant normally will begin to receive SSD income and benefits in a number of months after the application has been filed.

Conversely, if an applicant files a claim on their own, their claim is much more likely statistically to be denied.  If that happens, not only will the applicant normally be in financial hardship as a result of not receiving any pay for a number of months from not working, but the additional delay of many more months with no income will significantly increase their financial burden, often resulting in having to rely on high interest credit cards in order to get by.  

How Is Eligibility for Social Security Disability Determined?

The Social Security Administration will consider your age, education, past work history, and medical condition when making an eligibility determination.  To qualify, applicants must prove that they are (or expect to be) disabled from all employment for a minimum of one year, or that their condition is expected to result in death.  Additionally, claimants must also have paid into the Social Security system for a sufficient amount of time during their careers (we can advise you of these requirements concerning your situation).

Applications are reviewed through the local Social Security Administration and state Disability Determination Services, and can be submitted by mail, telephone, or online.  While Galax does not have a field office, an application can be filed in-person at the following nearby location:

Social Security Office
130 Withers Lane
Virginia, Wytheville, 24382

The application process can take a significant amount of time; thus, it is vital to file for benefits as soon as a disability arises.  It is critical to provide accurate information regarding the date of disability, as even small errors or discrepancies can result in a denial.  Additionally, the names and addresses of all physicians must be provided so that the SSA can acquire medical records and evaluate the extent of a condition. 

How Much Does Social Security Disability (SSD) Pay?

Disability payments are unique for every individual.  If eligible for benefits, the amount of the SSD payments will depend on an individual’s average lifetime earnings before the disability began, not on the severity of the condition or financial need.  In 2020, the maximum benefit is $3,011 per month; however, most recipients receive a monthly benefit between $800 and $1,800.

Social Security bases disability benefits on the amount of income that is paid into the Social Security Disability Insurance program (referred to as “covered earnings”).  When assessing disability amounts, a complicated equation (involving many different calculations and figures) is used.  Because of the complexity of the formula, most individuals have difficulty determining the potential monthly amount they may collect.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits to which you may be entitled, call our office to schedule a free consultation.  We can evaluate your work history and documentation to help in determining how much you may potentially receive.

If Your Application is Denied, SSD Attorney Mark Hurt Can Help You Through the Appeals Process

If your application is denied, you should promptly notify our firm so that an appeal, called a “Request for Reconsideration,” can be timely filed.  During a reconsideration, the SSA will take a second look at eligibility for disability benefits, and additional evidence may be presented to substantiate a claim further.  If a denial is issued at this stage, we can assist in filing a request for a hearing, which must be submitted within sixty days of receipt of a notice of denial.  There are some situations in which this time period may be extended, in general the Request for Reconsideration should always be filed within the 60 day period unless an applicant is physically not able to do so. 

At a hearing, applicants are required to appear and testify before an Administration Law Judge who will render a decision on benefits.  Much like a traditional court hearing, evidence can be presented, and witnesses can testify on a claimant’s behalf.

Statistically, having an experienced attorney by your side can significantly increase your chances of receiving an approval.  Galax Social Security Disability attorney Mark Hurt has been through the disability appeals process and understands what is needed to secure approval.  If you would like to file an appeal, we can help you through the process and tenaciously fight in seeking to obtain the full benefits to which you are rightfully entitled. 

Is There a Waiting Period to Get SSD Benefits?

Once approved, benefits typically begin within thirty to sixty days.  However, if an individual is collecting workers’ compensation or long-term disability, it may take longer, as the SSA must calculate any potential offset of benefits.

If a claim is denied and an appeal is necessary, it can take months or even years to secure an approval.  Therefore, it is essential for a claimant to speak with an attorney as soon as possible, so that the appeals process can be started immediately.

The disability claims process can be complex and confusing.  At The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, we can explain the survivor benefits to which you may be entitled and help you timely submit all required paperwork. 

Do I Need a Lawyer to Apply for Social Security Disability?

While it is not mandatory to hire an attorney, it recommended as a way to increase your odds of securing a favorable disability determination.  Statistically speaking, an individual who is represented by counsel is three times more likely to be awarded benefits over an unrepresented applicant.

With over three decades of legal experience, Mark Hurt can assist in compiling critical medical documentation and in preparing an initial application.  He can also provide compelling legal arguments before an Administrative Law Judge if an appeal hearing is necessary.

Contact us at 276-623-0808 to schedule a free consultation to learn how we can help with your SSD claim.

Client Review

“Ashley was amazing to work with. She has great people skills and I would recommend anyone to this law firm because of my experience”

NATALIE WALLACE
Client Review

What Our Clients Say

Mary, Bart, and Mark helped me tremendously with my workers compensation case. We navigated a long (over a year) road together and they helped me to not only win my case, but obtain a settlement of over $125k. I would recommend the Offices of Mark Hurt to anyone needing someone to stand with them in their corner! Thanks again Mary and Bart!! :-)
Charles Dutcher
Charles Dutcher
1685471585
Extremely pleased with the prompt support and guidance from Michael. He and the office staff were great to work with. They walked us through the process and were able to have my daughter's traffic violation dismissed with 0 points.
ga thomson
ga thomson
1684936164
Bart and Mary were very professional and helpful with my claim. I appreciate all that you did for me. You were great.Thanks forall that you've done.Clifford E Boyer
Clifford Boyer
Clifford Boyer
1683668004
I started receiving services through this law firm in 2017 for my workers compensation case. Over the years, this firm has been attentive, kind, patient and understanding to my needs. My calls were returned promptly, if the associate was unavailable at that time and I have had ample opportunity to speak with Mr Hurt directly concerning my case. With Mary Wilson, Bart Conway, Mr Hurt and others behind the scene, my case has progressed smoothly. I am very pleased with the services and attention I received at this firm and would recommend Mr Hurt, Mary and Bart for your needs.
Teresa Harris
Teresa Harris
1683569779
We hired Mr. Hurt to help settle a worker’s comp injury case for my husband. Mark, Bart, and Mary worked tirelessly to resolve his case and reach a settlement we were pleased with. They were always available to answer questions and returned calls in a timely manner.
K F
K F
1682489385
We were fortunate to find the Law Offices of Mark T. Hunt to help us set up our estate. Melanie was a joy to work with. She did a wonderful job putting together all of the documents needed to complete our estate planning.
Roxanne Mcfall
Roxanne Mcfall
1681766365
The office got right back to me and were compassionate about my sensitive situation
polly deal
polly deal
1680754180
Jessica was helpful in assisting me with my disability claim!
Amber Snapp
Amber Snapp
1680618358
Jessica was super helpful when I had questions about submitting my claim for disability. She also got me a case manager quickly!
Amber Petrovich
Amber Petrovich
1680618228
I have only praise for the Mark T Hurt firm and especially Michael Miles. Michael was very helpful in guiding me through the court process ans assuring a good outcome. I would recommend this firm and Michael in particular if you need representation in Virginia!
Dave Dalpiaz
Dave Dalpiaz
1680114987
I called and spoke with Jessica in the Disability Dept. after my Denial and she was right on top of getting me the paperwork to Hire them as my Representatives to Handle my claim from here on out
Allen Smith
Allen Smith
1679416063
Jessica was extremely helpful at assisting me with getting me in the process to file my disability case.
Jason Harris
Jason Harris
1678138281
Thank youJessica from the Social security DeptU were very Helpful
Christal Postema
Christal Postema
1678134153
Jessica in theSoccial Secuity Dept was great
Bryon Nimmo
Bryon Nimmo
1678130439
I spoke with Jessica and she was fantastic! She helped me get my social security disability application started and set up with a case manager.
Rebecca Hunt Ford
Rebecca Hunt Ford
1678128980
Jessica @ Social Security Department was very helpful and friendly with us today.
Winonia Blankenship
Winonia Blankenship
1678125271
I had a ticket and was upset. I did not want points on my license. Frankie was amazing and made sure all my bases were covered. The Law Office of Mark Hurt did a wonderful job and got my ticket completely dismissed!!!! I am so glad they helped me. They were so nice and answered all my questions. I never had to worry after I talked with them. I would highly recommend that anyone who needs help with a ticket to talk with this firm!! Thank you so much for everything!!!
Nichloas Wyatt
Nichloas Wyatt
1677981214
Jessica in Disability is awesome!! She replies quickly and gets things done. I’m very satisfied with my choice and feel great that it is in their hands!
laura dykes
laura dykes
1677875154
The individuals I spoke with were courteous, helpful, and thorough. Thank you Jessica.
RoseMarie Whisnant
RoseMarie Whisnant
1677785574
Jessica and the disability dept are very helpful and give excellent assistance with filling a claim very glad I contacted them
Jessie Hawks
Jessie Hawks
1677680471
Was very easy process. Jessica was very friendly and helpful while applying for Social Security Disability.
Darlene Robinson
Darlene Robinson
1677623644
Thank you so much Jessica for helping me with my social security disability case! You were kind, helpful, and understanding. I greatly appreciate you!
Kelly Bragg
Kelly Bragg
1677613932
Jessica and the group started helping me with my disability case the same day I called. 10/10 recommend
Brittany Poole
Brittany Poole
1677612031
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