Nashville Social Security Disability Lawyer

The SSA gives you “credits” based on how much you earned while working. The precise dollar amount you must earn to get a credit goes up a little every year, and you can earn a maximum of four credits per year. The number of credits you need to qualify for SSD benefits depends on how old you are when you become disabled:

• Under Age 24
  You generally must have earned six credits in the three years leading up to the date you became disabled.
• Between Ages 24-30
  The SSA typically requires you to have worked at least half the time between age 21 and the date you became disabled.
• Age 31 and Older
  You need to have earned at least 20 credits in the 10 years leading up to your disability. The exact number of credits you need to qualify for SSD benefits increases until age 62.

We know it can be difficult to determine if you have the credits necessary to get SSD benefits. If you aren’t sure if you qualify for SSD benefits, contact our knowledgeable Nashville attorneys today.

The Tennessee Disability Determination Services denies 75 percent of all initial SSD applications—one of the highest rates in the nation. The SSA may deny your disability claim based on a variety of factors, including your:

• Income and Resources
  Your monthly income must fall below what the SSA considers substantial gainful activity (SGA). SGA limits, which vary based on the nature of your disability, change every year. Visit the SSA’s Substantial Gainful Activity page for the most up-to-date income limits.
• Failure to Follow Prescribed Therapy
  The SSA may deny your claim if you fail to follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment when the treatment is expected to help you recover and return to work.
• Expected Recovery Time
  SSD benefits are intended for people with disabilities lasting for more than one year or resulting in death. The SSA may deny your claim if you’re expected to recover from your disability within weeks or months.

Don’t give up if your SSD claim is denied. Around 70 percent of Tennesseans who appeal their denials ultimately have their claims approved. Having an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer on your side during the appeals process in Nashville can make a big difference.