Van Camp & Deissner Law Offices, 1707 W. Broadway Ave.,  Spokane, WA 99201

SOCIAL SECURITY Persons who are disabled may qualify for Social Security benefits, possibly including pension benefits and Medicare coverage. Who is disabled? The Social Security Act defines "disability" as the "inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months." Whether you qualify will depend on how your medical condition affects you, and even more on what your Doctor is willing to say on your behalf. What benefits are Available to me? There are several types of Social Security disability benefits: Disability Insurance Benefits are available for people who have worked in recent years (generally at least five out of the last 10 years)  and are now disabled. Disabled Widow's and Widower's Benefits are  available for people who are at least 50 and become disabled within a certain amount of time after the death of their eligible husband or wife. Disabled Adult Child Benefits are available for children of persons who are deceased or already drawing Social Security benefits and the child has become disabled before age 22. Supplemental Security Income benefits are available regardless of work history but are based on need. The other Social Security benefits are not based on need. When do I need a lawyer? You need to apply for Social Security on your own -- we can't really do that for you.  If you are approved, then you don't need a lawyer.   Far more commonly, you will be denied benefits initially.  Then we can assist you in getting benefits.   See us soon after a denial -- there is a time limit to appeal! A comprehensive FAQ may be found at NOSSCR.com. Lori Freund   is our Social Security Guru.  She can answer your questions, and help you through the system.  Give her a call, initial consultations are free.

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