William R. Long Attorney At Law

Call Today – No Fee Unless You Win 318-562-1440

William R. Long Attorney At Law
318-562-1440
William R. Long Attorney At Law
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Decades Of Experience In Workers’ Compensation And Social Security Disability

Understanding SSDI Benefits And Your Rights

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal entitlement designed to provide disabled workers with income and (via Medicaid) insurance coverage. However, the SSDI application process can be tedious, confusing and stressful – and small mistakes can lead to unfair denials.

I am William R. Long, Attorney at Law, and I have more than 35 years of experience helping disabled workers in Louisiana receive the SSDI benefits they deserve. I take a hands-on, personalized approach to every claim, which has earned me the distinction of being named one of the top 100 attorneys in the Shreveport-Bossier City metro area.

Who Is Eligible For SSDI?

SSDI has specific qualifications. In general:

  • The disabled individual must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a sufficient number of years to be considered “insured” for SSDI. The amount of work someone needs to be insured for SSDI depends upon their age at the time they became disabled.
  • The disability applicant must have a medical condition that prevents them from working at their current job, previous jobs or other jobs for which they might be qualified.

Finally, the disability applicant’s condition must either have lasted or be expected to last at least 12 months or end in death to qualify for benefits. There is no such thing as “short-term” or “temporary” SSDI.

What Is The SSDI Application Process?

Applying for SSDI involves several steps:

  • Filing an application: Applicants can apply online, by phone or at a local Social Security office. They must provide personal details about their condition, medical care, education, daily activities and work history.
  • Medical evaluation: SSA then reviews the applicant’s medical evidence to determine whether their condition meets the criteria for disability.
  • Decision and appeals: SSA will eventually issue a decision based on the evidence. If denied, applicants can appeal the decision through reconsideration requests and, if necessary, a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

It takes approximately seven months to receive an initial decision. If the claim is denied, the appeals process can take more than a year. That is why it is so critical to seek legal guidance at the outset, since that can help you present your case for benefits most effectively.

Get Started With A Free Consultation

I work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not owe me anything unless I am successful. You can reach my Bossier City firm, William R. Long, Attorney at Law, by calling 318-562-1440 or reaching out online.