Coordinating Benefits
You may have private disability insurance coverage in addition to applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). We can assist you in coordinating those private benefits alongside your SSDI claim to help ensure a smoother, more organized process.
How Does All This Work?
Your private insurance provider may or may not direct you to our services. Once you connect with Hogan Smith Law, you’re working with professionals experienced in coordinating disability benefits. We begin by evaluating whether you’re likely to qualify for SSDI. If eligibility is confirmed, we represent you through the application process and, if needed, appeals.
From that point forward, our focus is on advocating for you and pursuing the benefits you deserve. For individuals who are eligible and complete the SSDI process with us, we maintain a 97% success rate, and clients who choose Hogan Smith Law often receive their SSDI benefits more quickly.
Your Insurance Provider May Cover the Cost
Depending on your insurance plan, our services may be available to you at little or no out-of-pocket cost, or for a fee determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA). In many cases, this fee may be tax deductible. Some long-term disability (LTD) insurers or employers also choose to cover representation costs while you continue receiving LTD benefits. If SSDI representation hasn’t been discussed with you, consider asking your claims analyst whether your provider will assist with securing Hogan Smith Law and covering the associated fee.
Understanding LTD Offsets
Long-term disability (LTD) benefits are designed to replace a portion of your income if you’re unable to work due to total or partial disability. When you also receive income from other sources—such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)—most LTD policies adjust their payments so your total income does not exceed the amount outlined in your policy.
Under the terms of most LTD plans, providers apply an offset for SSDI benefits. This typically means your LTD payment is reduced dollar-for-dollar by the amount you receive from SSDI. While the source of your income changes, your overall income level remains the same—part coming from LTD and part from SSDI.
Hogan Smith Law helps guide you through the LTD offset process, ensuring you understand how the coordination works and helping you protect your LTD income once your SSDI benefits begin.
Understanding LTD Overpayments
If you receive retroactive SSDI benefits in a lump-sum payment, it may result in an overpayment situation. This can occur when LTD benefits were paid during the same time period later covered by SSDI, since LTD offsets apply to overlapping benefit periods.
As part of our SSDI representation for individuals covered by LTD insurance, Hogan Smith Law helps you understand any overpayment obligations and assists with returning the appropriate amount to your LTD provider. Failing to meet repayment requirements can lead to suspension of LTD benefits.
By authorizing us to help manage the repayment process, you reduce the risk of interruptions to your LTD benefits or unexpected reductions in monthly income. This support helps safeguard your ongoing LTD payments, and most clients choose to have us handle this step on their behalf for added peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect during the social security disability application process?
The social security disability application process can be complex and time-consuming. Initially, you'll need to gather essential documentation and submit your application, detailing your medical condition and employment history. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed, which may require additional information. Many applicants face initial denials, making it crucial to have experienced guidance. At Hogan Smith Law, we simplify this process for you, increasing your chances of a successful claim. Contact us today to ensure you have the support needed for a smooth application experience.
How can I increase my chances of winning a social security disability appeal?
Winning a social security disability appeal requires thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the appeals process. Begin by reviewing the reasons for your initial denial and gather any additional supporting evidence. Having expert legal representation can significantly boost your chances; Hogan Smith Law specializes in presenting compelling cases for appeals. Our team will work with you to strengthen your case and guide you through every step, maximizing your likelihood of success. Don't face the appeals process alone—reach out to our experts for assistance.
What are common reasons for social security disability claim denials?
Common reasons for social security disability claim denials include insufficient medical evidence, non-compliance with treatment, and errors in the application. Many claims are denied due to a lack of clear demonstration of disability severity or an unaddressed discrepancy in documentation. Hogan Smith Law can help you identify and address these issues effectively, enhancing the chances of claim approval. Need assistance with your claim? Contact us to learn how we can guide you through the complexities of the approval process.
How important is medical documentation in a social security disability claim?
Medical documentation is crucial in a social security disability claim. It serves as the primary evidence of your condition and its impact on your ability to work. Comprehensive and up-to-date medical records, including doctors' reports and test results, support the validity of your claim. Hogan Smith Law recognizes the importance of detailed documentation and assists clients in gathering and presenting the necessary medical evidence. Enhance your claim's credibility—contact us to ensure you have adequate medical documentation.
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