Social Security Disability Lawyers Serving Minnesota And North Dakota
At Reitan Law Office, PLLC, we are committed to getting you the benefits you need, when you need them. Our offices are conveniently located throughout the Twin Cities and southern Minnesota in Chaska, Mankato and Minneapolis, as well as Fargo, North Dakota.
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How Is Your SSD Claim Evaluated?
Social Security Disability (SSD) benefit applications are closely scrutinized by the Social Security Administration (SSA). There is a five-step evaluation process that the Social Security Administration uses to decide if you are disabled. The steps are summarized as follows:
- Are you working? If you are working and your average monthly earnings are over a certain threshold level, then Social Security will not consider you disabled. The threshold level changes from year to year.
- Do you have a severe impairment? Your condition must interfere with basic work-related activities for your claim to be considered. If it does not, the Social Security Administration will find that you are not disabled.
- Does your disabling condition meet a listing? For each of the major body systems, the Social Security Administration maintains a list of medical conditions that are so severe that they automatically mean that you are disabled. If your condition is not on the list, Social Security will have to decide if your condition is of equal severity to a medical condition that is on the list. If it is, then they will find that you are disabled.
- Can you do the work you previously did? If your condition is severe but not at the same or equal level of severity as a medical condition on the list, then Social Security must determine if it interferes with your ability to do the work you did previously. If it does not, your claim will be denied.
- Can you do other types of work? If you cannot do the work you did in the past, Social Security will see if you are able to adjust to other work. The Social Security Administration will consider your medical conditions, your age, education, past work experience and any transferable skills you may have. If you cannot adjust to other work, your claim should be approved.
Your Social Security application is your opportunity to prove you are entitled to disability benefits. Failure to properly complete this application can result in a denied claim. Make sure your application demonstrates you qualify for SSDI or SSI. Call our law office for help.
Depending on your disability, your age – whether you are a child or over 50 – your education level and your work history, different qualification rules may apply. At Reitan Law Office, PLLC, we will guide you through the entire Social Security disability process, from start to finish. Our goal is to get you the benefits you need in the shortest time possible.
Which Social Security Disability Benefits Are Right For You?
The SSA offers two different types of disability benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Because rules and regulations can vary by region, our attorneys will help you navigate the complexities of North Dakota SSDI and SSI.
SSDI Representation You Can Trust
SSDI and SSI are federal government programs, but it is still essential to have local legal representation when you apply or have to appeal a denied claim. Every state has its own Disability Determination Services (DDS), where decisions are made – and hearings are typically held before an administrative law judge (ALJ) within the state.
At Reitan Law Office, PLLC, we understand the unique needs and challenges faced by residents of Minnesota and North Dakota. When you need assistance gathering medical evidence, completing your SSDI or SSI applications, or appealing a denial, our team is here to support you. Our familiarity with the Social Security Administration (SSA) offices and processes can make it easier to understand what needs to be done and what to expect at each stage of the process.
What Local Medical Facilities Can Provide Documentation For Your SSDI Application?
Any local doctor, hospital or clinic can ultimately provide information for your SSDI application. Our service areas in Minnesota and North Dakota include several prominent medical facilities that provide a wide array of services.
Minnesota medical facilities include:
- Hennepin Healthcare (Minneapolis)
- Mayo Clinic Health System (Mankato)
- Ridgeview Medical Center (Chaska)
- North Memorial Health hospital
- Allina Health facilities
Meanwhile, North Dakota medical facilities include:
- Sanford Medical Center Fargo
- Essentia Health-Fargo
- Fargo VA Health Care System
- Sanford Broadway Medical Center
- Prairie St. John’s hospital
If you have been treated at any of these facilities for your disabling condition, make sure you include their information on your application.
What If You Live In A Rural Area And Have Limited Access To Medical Care?
Medical documentation of your disabling condition is critical to your SSDI and/or SSI claim – but not everyone has access to the same level of care. If your medical documentation is sparse or includes conflicting or unclear information, SSA may schedule you for one or more independent medical exams at its expense.
Call Us For Help Today
If you have questions or want more information about your SSD application, please see our FAQ section or contact our lawyers to discuss your case in detail. Consultations are free at 952-448-2800 – Chaska, 701-581-7854 – Fargo, 507-388-1800 – Mankato or 612-424-6011 – Minneapolis.