Social Security Disability FAQs

North Carolina Social Security Disability Lawyer

1.  What is Social Security Disability Insurance?  Who is eligible?

Social Security Disability Insurance benefits are available to people who are no longer able to work due to a disability.  In order to qualify, a person typically must have worked for at least five of the last ten years. If you wish to obtain SSDI benefits you must also prove that you are suffering from a "total disability," which is basically any disability, injury, illness, or condition that:

• Prevents you from being able to continue working at your current job
• Prevents you from being able to adjust to another type of work
• Is expected to last for at least one year or result in death

2.  What if I have never been employed? Can I still obtain SSDI benefits?

You will likely be denied SSDI benefits if you have not been working the last few years. However, if you are denied SSDI benefits or you do not qualify for SSDI benefits, you may still be able to collect Supplemental Security Income.

3.  How long will I receive SSDI benefits for?

SSDI benefits will last as long as you are still disabled and still unable to work. 

4. What is Supplemental Security Income? Who is eligible?

Supplemental Security Income is a federally funded program that provides cash assistance to people who are blind, aged, or disabled and have little or no income.  The program was designed to help these people pay for food, shelter, clothing, and other basic needs.

5.  My claim for SSDI benefits was denied.  Can you help me?

Yes. If your claim for SSDI benefits or SSI has been denied, do not give up hope. There are a multitude of reasons why claims are denied. You can trust our dedicated staff to determine why your claim was denied and then help you file an appeal if appropriate.

Contact a North Carolina Social Security Disability attorney at Lanier Law Group if you have any additional questions about Social Security Disability laws or the claims process.