Navigating Social Security Benefits

Social Security is like an insurance policy. It is based on the concept that, while you work, you pay taxes into the Social Security system; and when you retire or become disabled, you and your dependent children receive monthly benefits that are based on your earnings history.  There are others who may also qualify for benefits on your earnings record such as a widowed spouse or a child who is disabled before reaching age 22. However, not all people are eligible for Social Security, and this is based primarily on one’s work history.

One popular myth about Social Security is that it is a type of personal savings account, but that is not true. The money you pay into the Social Security system with every paycheck is not placed into a personalized account with your name on it. Instead, the money you pay now goes to pay current retirees and recipients of disability benefits.

For those who have not worked enough to be eligible for Social Security, there is another option: a welfare program known as Supplemental Security Income. The SSI program, unlike the Social Security program, also considers a person’s income, assets, and resources.

How does Social Security define disability?

Social Security defines disability as the inability to do substantial gainful activity for a period of at least 12 months, or as having a terminal illness.  The analysis requires Social Security to take into account your age, education, past work experience in addition to your medical problems.

Social Security has various age categories which greatly influence the outcome of many cases. Individuals over the age of 50 may have an advantage over younger individuals, but again education and past work experience also play a role.

Disabilities can take any form, mental or physical, and sometimes a combination of both.

What if you are denied social security benefits? 

Appealing a Social Security disability claim is a tedious process that can present a series of problems for individuals hoping to reap the rewards of disability benefits. The social security lawyers and advocates at Campbell & Associates take pride in representing disabled individuals who have suffered through a serious injury or mental or physical illness and have been denied their right to Social Security disability benefits. Many who are denied have worked their entire lives, paying into this system, and now they’re unable to earn a living. Denying them the right to disability benefits leaves these people without income, thus posing a serious threat to their everyday existence. If you or someone you love has been denied disability benefits, contact Campbell & Associates today for a free consultation.

 The methods and process that the Social Security Administration employs in terms of reviewing claims for Social Security Disability benefits are complicated and discouraging to those seeking benefits. The Social Security attorneys and representatives at Campbell & Associates are skilled in the representation of cases concerning the denial of Social Security disability insurance benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims. Our familiarity with the system and our determination in obtaining a positive result for deserving individuals demonstrates our passion for justice and our concern for our neighbors in and around Charlotte, Gastonia, Hickory, Monroe and Rock Hill.