NYC Social Security Disability Attorney

If you can't work, we'll go to work for you

You work hard. You paid into the system. If you can no longer work due to an injury or illness, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available to you. But actually getting the benefits you need to live can be an uphill battle. The NYC Social Security Disability lawyers at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP can help.

Who qualifies for Social Security Disability in NYC?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD or SSDI) is a federal program that provides steady income for people who cannot work due to a disability. In order to qualify for SSD, you need to meet the following SSD eligibility criteria:

• Have worked a certain amount of time in jobs covered by Social Security. This is typically five of the last 10 years, but you may be eligible with fewer years of work if you are age 30 or under.
• Have a disability that fits the Social Security Administration's criteria.
• Be under 65 years old. (at age 65, the retirement portion of Social Security kicks in, so you no longer need the disability portion)

In principle, that seems straightforward. But actually getting SSD benefits can be surprisingly difficult. The Social Security Administration routinely denies applications. Even if you know you have a disability, proving it to the agency's satisfaction can be very challenging.

How much does Social Security Disability pay in NYC?

Your Social Security Disability benefits are calculated based on your average monthly earnings before you became disabled. The Social Security Administration looks at your earnings in covered jobs over a period of time and calculates your Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME). The SSA then applies a formula to determine your primary insurance amount (PIA), which is used to establish your benefits.

The average SSDI cash benefit is approximately $1,000 to $1,200 per month, but your benefit may be higher or lower depending on your earnings history. Our attorneys can explain how your benefits will be calculated in a free consultation.

How to apply for Social Security Disability

The process of getting SSDI benefits begins with an application filed with the Social Security Administration. This application will include basic background information, work history, and details about your disability. The SSA will review the application and determine whether you are eligible for benefits.

Unfortunately, the SSA rejects the majority of initial applications. Even if your application has merit, there is a good chance you will not be approved at this stage. Fortunately, you can apply for reconsideration, and if your application is rejected again, there is an appeals process. However, this process is complex, and if you miss a deadline at any stage, you have to start the whole process over again.

How an SSD attorney can help

That's why you need an experienced NYC Social Security Disability lawyer on your side, fighting for your best interests. We understand the process and make sure we hit every deadline without fail to keep your application on track. We also know the SSA’s disability criteria and understand how to present your case in a manner that maximizes your chances of getting approved. Our law firm has a strong track record in SSD appeals, and we know how to build a strong case that helps you get the benefits you deserve.

The sooner you take action, the better. We handle these cases on a contingency fee basis with no up-front cost. If we win your case, our fee is just a percentage of the back benefits you are owed. In other words, the sooner you contact our SSD lawyers, the more money will end up in your pocket if we win your case.

Take action quickly to get the benefits you need. We can meet with you at any of our offices in New York City, or we can come to you. Schedule your free consultation with a NYC Social Security Disability attorney today.

Our New York City Offices

Manhattan Office
551 5th Avenue
Suite 520
New York, NY 10176
212-341-7900
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Brooklyn Offices
180 Livingston Street
Suite 2
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718-395-5056

2053 Flatbush Ave
Floor 1
Brooklyn, NY 11234
718-222-9800
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Bronx Office
1775 Grand Concourse
Suite 701
Bronx, NY 10453
347-584-8576
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Queens Office
118-35 Queens Blvd
Suite 1725
Queens, NY 11375
347-926-7104
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