Social Security Disability in Oakland, CA
Applying for Social Security benefits can be a complicated and often frustrating process. Even when you have a legitimate claim, it is not uncommon to receive a denial.
You may wonder what options you have to appeal the decision. This article will help you explore your legal options and the benefits of hiring an attorney. Whether you are starting the process in Oakland or have already received a denial, the information below could be necessary.
Social Security Disability In Oakland, CA
If you think you’re qualified to receive SSDI, you must complete an application for the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, what if you receive a denial even though you satisfy all the criteria?
In that case, you should seek the assistance of an experienced Oakland, CA attorney. They have the experience you need to navigate through the appeals process.
Who Is Eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance?
Understanding the requirements is essential to avoid a denial for SSDI benefits in Oakland, California. Additionally, this process will help you know whether you should hire a lawyer.
The Department of Healthcare Services may determine eligibility for SSI or SSDI for Oakland residents. You must complete the following forms to apply for benefits:
- Supplemental Statement of Facts
- Authorization for Release of Information
- Appointment of Representative (for estate recovery only)
Work Credits
Your work experience in Oakland is a critical factor in meeting the first requirement for SSDI. You must work for a certain amount of time in a position where you pay FICA taxes and earn work credits. You can acquire up to four work credits each year. Additionally, the number of credits required for eligibility varies based on age.
The California Employment Development Department offers guidance on how these taxes work. However, the rates are not under the control of the state government. The federal government determines the percentage. Currently, the payroll tax rate is 15.3% and gets split between employees in Oakland and their employers.
Qualifying Medical Condition
The second prerequisite for SSDI eligibility involves having a severe and long-term medical condition. It must prevent you from completing essential job functions for a year or more. The SSA’s updated list of medical conditions that qualify includes the following:
- Musculoskeletal problems, such as back injuries and joint dysfunction
- Cardiovascular conditions, such as chronic heart failure and coronary artery disease
- Sensory and speech issues, such as vision and hearing loss and speech impairments
- Respiratory illnesses, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Digestive tract disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease and liver disease
- Immune system disorders, such as lupus and HIV/AIDS
- Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy
- Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety disorders
- Malignant neoplastic diseases, such as cancer
Although having a medical condition that qualifies for SSDI is critical, there are other factors. Even if you have a qualifying ailment, you may not be eligible if you earn too much working in Oakland.
This condition is the work credit requirement. For example, the SSA will assume you have gainful employment if you earn $1,260 monthly with a disability. Alternatively, a visually impaired applicant cannot earn more than $2,110 monthly.
SSI vs. SSDI
If you are ineligible for SSDI due to the work credit requirement, you may still be eligible for SSI. This federal program assists individuals with disabilities who have minimal or no income. It provides monthly payments to help individuals cover necessities such as clothing, food, and housing.
California has a supplementary program called the State Supplementary Payment (SSP). It provides extra financial help to help individuals with food, shelter, and clothing. The amount varies based on a recipient’s living situation and other factors.
Additionally, California offers the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI). This benefit provides cash benefits to elderly, blind, or disabled non-citizens who are ineligible for SSI.
How To Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits In Oakland, California
Applying for SSDI benefits is relatively straightforward, but it is important to be exceptionally prepared. Otherwise, it can become unnecessarily complicated. Here is what you need to know about your SSDI benefits application.
Step 1: Gather Appropriate Information
Before applying for SSDI benefits, it is crucial to collect all the necessary information. The following is a list of the most frequent items you should have available:
- A record of your diagnosed medical conditions
- Details about the healthcare professionals you have consulted, including the dates of your appointments
- A list of prescribed medications or treatments, along with the names of the medical professionals who prescribed them
- Information about your employment history, including the type of work you did before your disability
- Details about your education level and vocational training
- Employment information for the previous two years, including your start and end dates
- Information about any military service you may have had, including your service dates
- Details about your current and/or former spouses
- Names and birthdates of your children who are below 18 years old or who became disabled before turning 22
- Any other data you believe to be relevant
Step 2: Apply Online
There are three methods to apply for SSDI benefits:
- Apply online by visiting ssa.gov/applyfordisability
- Schedule an appointment by calling the Social Security office at 800-772-1213
- Apply in person without an appointment by visiting your local Oakland, CA Social Security office
You should apply for disability insurance only after you have enough medical records to support your claims. Schedule a few appointments if you have not consulted with a healthcare professional. You must have their SSDI recommendation before you can receive approval.
The nearest Social Security Office for most Oakland residents is in the city. The current address at the time of writing is:
1301 Clay St, Suite 1230N
Oakland, CA 94612
Step 3. If Denied, Contact an Attorney
If the government denies your SSDI benefits, consult an attorney in Oakland and challenge the decision. Your attorney will gather all necessary information and make a compelling argument for the appeal.
Work With an Experienced Local Lawyer In Oakland, California
If you believe you deserve SSDI benefits, seek the advice of a lawyer in Oakland. A skilled legal counselor can challenge the decision and potentially get the benefits you require. We can even assist you in locating an attorney beyond California lines.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get started.
