The Social Security Disability Insurance program (SSDI) recently celebrated its 70th anniversary, which began as a way to help Americans with disabilities pay for their living expenses. In many ways, it is a time to recognize how far the program has come since it was created, and how many people it has helped. However, it is also a reminder that many people who could benefit from the program do not currently do so, often due to struggles with the application process.
70 Years of SSDI
The SSDI program was officially created on August 1, 1956, and was signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower as part of the Social Security Amendments of 1956. This law was meant to expand the original Social Security Act by helping American workers with disabilities get financial support. Today, it is estimated that more than seven million people receive SSDI benefits across the United States.
The Benefits of SSDI
For many Americans, SSDI benefits are an essential component of how they pay their bills, due to struggles they may have maintaining gainful employment. For some workers, it is merely there to help them while they get back on their feet after a serious illness or injury. For others, it is a lifeline to help them cope with chronic medical issues, some of which may follow them for their entire lives.
Ongoing Struggles With SSDI Applications
Sadly, not everyone who may qualify for SSDI necessarily gets the benefits when they need them. Often, this is due to avoidable issues with their applications that result in them being unjustly denied, such as paperwork errors or issues with obtaining medical records. Fortunately, disability lawyers with experience handling SSDI applications can help address these problems, such as those at Sullivan and Kehoe.
What You Should Do
If you have struggled to get SSDI benefits, a lawyer with experience handling SSDI and SSI applications may be able to help you. They can not only ensure your application is filled out accurately and completely, they can also address any problems that may arise. And if your application is denied, they can help you appeal the decision to get the best possible chance of success.
If you or a loved one need assistance applying for SSDI or SSI benefits, it is important that you seek the guidance of an experienced Social Security Disability benefits lawyer. The lawyers at Sullivan & Kehoe, LLP have over 50 years of combined experience between its attorneys and are available to you or your loved one in obtaining Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits. To schedule a consultation with our New York Social Security Disability benefits lawyers, call (631) 823-7155.
