Qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits can take up to two years, sometimes longer in appeals. Although benefits are awarded retroactively if you get a favorable decision, the long and uncertain wait can feel unbearable.JP Law is sensitive to the frustrations and hardships of applying for SSD or SSI, especially if you have no savings, income or insurance.
The Disability Determination Services (DDS) offices in your state determine the eligibility of applicants for SSD and SSI. If you have questions about Social Security Disability in your state, or about an application that you have already filed, you can contact your local DDS office. For your convenience, the DDS contact information for the 9th Circuit states — the states we serve — is provided below.
Navigating the Social Security Disability system can be daunting, especially when you are dealing with the pain from your disability or other medical condition. You shouldn't have to worry about whether your pain is “bad enough” or your condition is “serious enough” to get your SSDI benefits claim approved. That's why the experienced lawyers of JP Law are here.
At JP Law, understanding your pain is one of our highest priorities. We realize that helping you file a claim for Social Security Disability benefits — or pursuing an appeal if your claim is denied at first — can take a physical and emotional toll in addition to what you confront on a daily basis.
JP Law is based in the Portland, Oregon, area and serves clients in the U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit states. Below you will find information about how to apply for Social Security Disability in the states we serve. Because states differ in handling SSD claims, it is crucial to get information for your state agency or discuss your application with a qualified lawyer who practices in your state.
Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Because the SSA is a federal agency, the rules for receiving disability benefits are mostly the same from state to state. There are, however, some minor differences — and for this reason, it is very important to consult a highly qualified attorney if your SSD claim has been denied.
You are not required to hire a lawyer — a lucky few do qualify for disability benefits without any help. But you should seek legal help if your claim is denied. The Social Security Administration itself recommends hiring a lawyer for the complex hearing and appeals process.
Despite your daily pains and struggles, your disability claim is decided by a bureaucrat in a faraway office or a judge who is trained to be skeptical. About 75 percent of all first-time applications for Social Security Disability are turned down. Many people give up in despair. Don't be one of them!
All local Social Security offices will be closed to the public for in-person service starting Tuesday, March 17, 2020. This decision protects the population we serve—older Americans and people with underlying medical conditions—and our employees during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. However, we are still able to provide critical services.