Willmar Social Security Disability Attorneys
Standing Up for The Rights of Disabled Clients & Their Families
If you or a family member are unable to work due to a disability, you may be eligible for federal benefits available to individuals who meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disabled. There are two types of benefits: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). In Minnesota, the state is responsible for assigning these benefits. Our Willmar Social Security disability attorneys have an in-depth understanding of Minnesota law and can help you apply for benefits or appeal a denied claim. Reach out the legal team at Schneider & Madsen if you are ready to learn more.
Contact us now to schedule your free consultation and see if our firm is the right fit for you.
How Does SSI & SSDI Work & What Do They Cover?
Both SSI and SSDI are paid by the SSA. In general, the medical requirements for both programs are the same and disability is determined by the same process.
However, they have some key differences:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides benefits to disabled adults and children who have a financial need based on limited income and resources.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays benefits to you and certain family members if you are “insured,” meaning worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes before becoming disabled.
To qualify as disabled, all the following must apply to you or the person filing:
- You are unable to perform the job that you did before you became disabled
- You cannot transition into another line of work because of your medical condition
- Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death
In Minnesota, you can receive up to $771 a month in SSI benefits from the federal government. Additionally, you may be eligible for a supplemental SSI payment from the Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) program.
Your SSDI benefit payments are determined by your average lifetime earnings—however, recipients get between $800 and $1800 per month on average.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits
In Minnesota, a state organization called Disability Determination Services (DDS) makes the initial decision on whether you qualify for disability benefits using the SSA’s guidelines. They will look at your medical records and may have you come in for an exam with a doctor.
To apply, you can do so in person at your local SSA field office, online, or over the phone. You may choose to do this on your own or hire an attorney to help.
Disability Denials & Appeals
Have you filed for Social Security benefits and received a denial notice? You may be able to appeal the decision. First, you must request that the DDS reconsider your denied claim. If they deny your claim a second time, you can request a hearing.
Our Social Security disability attorneys at Schneider & Madsen have decades of experience successfully navigating the Minnesota legal system on behalf of our clients. We can assist you in the appeal and hearing process by using our legal expertise to ensure your claim will be approved. We are committed to helping our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
To learn more, contact out Willmar Social Security disability attorneys at (320) 244-4812 or write to us online. We can answer all your questions during a free consultation.
