Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits is rarely a straightforward process. Disabled individuals often face complicated forms, strict deadlines, and frustrating denials. Even when you have a strong work history and serious medical conditions, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may still deny your claim. That is why the benefits of hiring an SSDI lawyer in Findlay can be substantial, potentially making a difference in the outcome of your case.
At Schaffer & Associates, we are local attorneys born and raised in northwest Ohio. With decades of experience handling disability claims, we know how to guide disabled individuals in Findlay and the surrounding area through the SSDI process. When you call us, you will speak directly to an attorney, not be passed off to a large call center. We take pride in offering personalized service while providing you with the resources needed to pursue the benefits you deserve.
One of the most important benefits of working with a Findlay attorney is avoiding mistakes with SSDI deadlines and paperwork. After a denial, you generally have only 60 days to file an appeal. If you miss this deadline, you may have to start over, which delays your benefits and weakens your case.
Our attorneys can explain the rules clearly, file your paperwork properly, and track every deadline. Acting quickly also allows us to collect medical records, contact your providers, and prepare arguments before your hearing. These steps can prevent avoidable delays and strengthen your appeal.
To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked long enough and recently enough, typically within the last five years. Many applicants mistakenly believe that any past work history is sufficient, but your coverage can expire if you have not worked recently. The SSA focuses on whether you paid into the system during the required timeframe.
Disabled individuals also need current medical evidence showing that they cannot maintain employment. A BWC physician may document injuries for workers’ compensation, but SSA judges require specific records and functional reports to decide disability cases. When you employ a Findlay lawyer at Schaffer & Associates, we help you present both your work history and medical evidence so the SSA understands why you are eligible for SSDI.
Another advantage of hiring an attorney in Findlay is understanding whether you should pursue Supplemental Security Income (SSI), SSDI, or both. SSI is based on income and resource limits, while SSDI is based on work history. Disabled individuals not eligible for SSI may still qualify for SSDI if they have worked long enough and recently enough. The maximum SSI benefit is generally just under $1,000 for individuals and just under $1,500 for couples.
Our firm does not assist with initial SSI applications, but we advise individuals to file their application themselves and call us if they receive a denial. We can support clients at the appeal stage. Knowing the difference between SSI and SSDI prevents wasted time and avoids unnecessary denials.
SSDI hearings are informal, but they require preparation and knowledge of what judges expect. Many applicants wait until the last minute to seek representation, which often hurts their case. Engaging the support of a Findlay lawyer early in the process can help your SSDI hearing go more smoothly.
Because we are a boutique firm, your case is never handed off to junior staff. You will work with the same team from start to finish. This personal approach is one reason why clients in Findlay and the surrounding area trust Schaffer & Associates to handle their appeals.
The benefits of hiring an SSDI lawyer in Findlay are clear, from meeting deadlines to presenting the strongest medical and work evidence possible. Schaffer & Associates are the local attorneys who know the system and will fight to protect your rights.
Call today to speak directly with an attorney and learn how our team can help you secure the benefits you deserve.