While many people apply for benefits under these programs every year, the federal government denies countless applications for a variety of reasons.

Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo protects disabled workers

If you want to apply for SSD or SSI, or if the federal government has denied your claim for SSD or SSI, contact us. We know the strategies and the law, and will fight tirelessly to help secure the disability benefits you deserve.

Our attorneys examine the facts and circumstances of your situation, to help you determine how to proceed. We have the experience and knowledge to help you decide when and how best to assert your claims and get you the compensation you deserve. If we represent you in an SSD or SSI claim, we will represent you on a contingency fee basis, meaning that we only receive payment out of any recovery we get for you.

Making a claim for SSD or SSI

The road to obtaining SSD or SSI benefits can often be long, complicated, and frustrating. The initial application, which is the first step of applying for these benefits, is complex and lengthy. So many mistakes are made on the initial application, and this can greatly lower your chances at qualifying.

Getting denied SSD or SSI benefits on your initial application triggers an even more confusing appeals process. Unfortunately, Social Security Administration employees at the local office are generally not able to help you through these challenging steps.

Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability, or SSD, provides payments to workers who have paid into the system but have not reached retirement age, and who cannot work for an extended period of time due to disability. In order to qualify for such benefits, you must either be:

• A disabled and insured worker under age 66; or
• A defined family member of an eligible worker.

To qualify as an “insured worker” under the law, you must have worked both long enough and recently enough. Family members can be paid “auxiliary benefits,” also known as dependents’ benefits, if they meet certain qualifications.

If you are not a citizen and not a permanent resident, you may still qualify for SSD benefits if you meet certain criteria.

Your disability must also meet certain criteria in order to receive SSD benefits, including:

• You must be unable to engage in substantial gainful employment because of your disability
• Your disability must be expected to last at least one year
• Your disability must be listed within the SSA’s list of impairments

If you are granted SSD benefits, your monthly payments are based on your average lifetime earnings. The severity of your disability does not factor into your monthly benefit amount. You may also be entitled to receive past benefits if you show that you were disabled before the date of your SSD application.

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is a benefit for adults and children who are disabled and have limited income and resources. If you have too much income you will be denied SSI benefits no matter how severe your medical problems. Your disability or medical condition must meet the same requirements as those outlined above for SSD benefits.

Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo obtains relief

​If you are unable to work due to injury or illness, having an experienced Social Security attorney in your corner can make a huge difference. Attorney Alexis Berg-Townsend is one of the Lehigh Valley’s foremost Social Security attorneys. She has won benefits for countless clients over the years. Alexis leads a group of talented attorneys who can help steer you through every step of the SSD and SSI process, from the initial application to the appeals.

Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo offers free consultations to individuals who have a SSD/SSI claim or claim dispute. We pride ourselves on fighting for each client’s rights and handling each case with dedication and care.