Little Rock Social Security Disability Attorneys

Serving Clients in All Surrounding Arkansas Counties

If you are disabled and unable to work, you may be entitled to Social Security benefits. Unfortunately, navigating the process and obtaining the benefits you desperately need can be an overwhelming and frustrating process.

If you think you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) but have been Denied by the government, our team at Niblock & Associates is ready to help. Our Little Rock Social Security Disability lawyers have over 42 years of experience and have a deep understanding of both programs’ requirements. 

If the Government has Denied your Social Security Disability claim, we can help by communicating  with the Administration, Appealing adverse decisions as well as representing you at your Hearing before a Social Security Administrative Law Judge. Our team will serve as your compassionate advocate every step of the way. Our goal is to get your claim Approved so you can receive the benefits you need.

We also serve clients in Searcy and Stuttgart. Contact us online or call (501) 299-5963 to schedule an initial consultation.

The Difference Between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 

Both the SSDI and SSI programs offer monetary benefits to qualifying disabled individuals. The SSI program is specifically intended for disabled individuals with extremely limited income and resources. The SSDI program “insures” disabled workers who have earned enough “work credits” (which are earned by working normal jobs and paying in social security taxes) within the 10 year period before becoming disabled. 

Other important differences between the SSDI and SSI programs include:

• SSDI program eligibility can pay survivors benefits and death benefits to qualifying members of your family if you pass away.
• For SSDI, a worker’s monthly payment amount is based on their Social Security earnings record. There is a maximum monthly benefit amount for SSI and can be reduced if one has non-exempt income or resources.  
• Workers who receive SSDI benefits and have been disabled for two (2) years, will automatically receive Medicare coverage. SSI beneficiaries in Arkansas usually qualify for Medicaid benefits immediately.  

Do I Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Social Security’s eligibility requirements can be extremely confusing. Fortunately, we have a complete understanding of each program and what SSA looks for when evaluating applications. When you come to us for assistance, our Little Rock Social Security Disability Team will carefully review your circumstances and determine whether we believe you qualify for benefits and walk you through the application process and timeline.

You may be eligible for SSDI and/or SSI benefits if:

• You are Disabled: “Disability” is defined as the inability to engage in substantial gainful employment on a regular and continuous basis due to a mental and/or physical condition which has or will last for 12 months or more or result in death. The SSA maintains an long list of conditions that usually qualify someone for benefits.
• You are not currently working. When reviewing your claim, the SSA will determine if you are engaged in “substantial gainful activity.” In other words, if you are working and making above the allowed amount, the SSA will likely decide you are not disabled and not qualified for benefits.  If you are working a regular job, even part time, you are basically proving you can work, thus not disabled.
• You have earned enough “work credits.” If you are applying for Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits, you must have enough “work credits” paid into Social Security, for your age range. To earn one “work credit” you must work and pay in social security tax for a quarter, which is a three (3) month period.  To qualify, the usual adult must work 20 quarters of the 40 quarters before becoming disabled. 
• You have limited income and resources. If you are requesting Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you do not need to worry about the work credit requirement. The SSI program is designed for disabled adults and children who have little to no income or valuable assets. 

How We Can Help You Obtain Disability Benefits

When seeking Social Security Disability benefits, our job is to do everything possible to get your claim Approved. We will work to put you in the best possible position, represent you at the Hearing before the Administrative Law Judge and assist you throughout each stage of the appeals process. 

Our Little Rock Social Security Disability lawyers at Niblock & Associates can help you access earned benefits by:

• Reviewing your circumstances. We will carefully analyze your situation and take the time to get a thorough understanding of you, your disability, and your needs. 
• Identifying which program(s) you qualify for. After reviewing your case, we will advise whether you are eligible for the SSDI program, the SSI program, or both. Some disabled adults are eligible for both programs. We will help you understand how each program works and how much time it may take for your claim to process. If you are experiencing financial distress, our team may also be able to identify other relief options. 
• Gathering and managing medical evidence and other documentation. The Social Security Disability process requires meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive document management. We know what the SSA needs to approve a claim and can work to ensure all necessary information is accurately assembled and organized. 
• Completing and submitting your application. Once all necessary documents are located, we will work with you to prepare your application. After another precise review to confirm total accuracy, we will submit the application on your behalf. 
• Represent you in communications with the SSA. In some instances, the SSA will contact you and request additional information or evidence. They may also require you to undergo an additional medical examination. If you receive a letter from the SSA, we can review the request and advise how you should proceed. We are also prepared to represent you in any direct communications with SSA representatives. 
• Advocate for you during the appeals process. When you hire a legal professional, your claim is generally more likely to be Approved because an attorney can help you avoid common mistakes and verify everything you need is included in your file. If your claim has been Denied, we are ready to guide you throughout the appeals process. We will make sure you file your appeal within the required timeframe (60 days from receiving the denied claim). Our team can also help you submit new evidence and represent you at your Hearing in front of the Judge.