Get Help With Social Security Disability Claims

Advocating for the Rights of Disabled Individuals and Their Families

If you or a loved one is unable to work due to a disability, you might qualify for federal benefits defined by the Social Security Administration (SSA). There are two primary types of benefits: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). In Minnesota, the state distributes these benefits.

Our Willmar, MN, social security disability attorneys at Schneider & Madsen P.C. have a deep understanding of Minnesota law and are here to assist you with both applying for benefits and appealing denied claims. Contact our legal team to find out how we can help you navigate this process and secure the benefits you deserve.

Answers to All Your Tough Disability Benefits Questions

If you or your loved one needs to file for SSDI or SSI, you likely have a ton of questions.

• Does my disability qualify me for benefits?
• How do I prove to the SSA that I’m disabled?
• How does the SSA calculate my benefits and how much will I get?
• What steps do I take if my initial claim is rejected?
• Is there anything I can do to speed up the process?

You can direct all of your questions to Schneider & Madsen. We know the ins and outs of disability law and how to best lead you through the journey to a successful claim. We have a deep passion for helping the disabled, even in the toughest of cases, such as difficult-to-prove physical and mental conditions.

Understanding How SSI & SSDI Work and What They Cover

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are both administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and share similar medical requirements and disability determination processes. However, they differ in several important ways:

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides financial assistance to disabled adults and children with limited income and resources. SSI is designed to support those who have significant financial need.

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Offers benefits to individuals who have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes before becoming disabled. SSDI also extends benefits to certain family members of the insured worker.
  

Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

In Minnesota, the Disability Determination Services (DDS) is responsible for making the initial decision on your eligibility for disability benefits, based on the guidelines set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). DDS will review your medical records and may require you to attend an examination with a medical professional.

You can apply for Social Security Disability benefits in several ways:

• In Person: Visit your local SSA field office.
• Online: Submit your application through the SSA’s website.
• By Phone: Apply over the phone with SSA representatives.

You can choose to apply on your own or seek assistance from an attorney to help guide you through the process.

Disability Denials and Appeals

If your application for Social Security benefits has been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The first step is to request a reconsideration from the Disability Determination Services (DDS). If your claim is denied again, you can then request a hearing to further contest the decision.

At Schneider & Madsen P.C., our Social Security disability attorneys bring decades of experience in successfully navigating the Minnesota legal system. We are dedicated to assisting you through the appeal and hearing process, using our expertise to increase the chances of your claim being approved.

To learn more about how we can help, contact our Willmar Social Security disability attorneys at (320) 235-1902 or reach out to us online. We offer a free consultation to answer your questions and discuss your options.