Social Security Qualifications

Do I Qualify for Social Security Benefits?

Many people become intimidated by the very thought of applying for Social Security benefits because they don't know how the system works or what it takes to qualify. Others apply and give up after they receive an initial denial because they assume that they never qualified in the first place. The Social Security system is very complex and understanding the qualifications can be confusing. Be sure that you have the help of an experienced Social Security lawyer.

At the Whitesell Law Offices, we represent clients in all types of Social Security law matters. With offices in Nashville, Tennessee and Fulton, Kentucky, we help our clients to fully understand their rights and what it takes to qualify for SSI and SSDI benefits. Our founding attorney, John Whitesell, has been practicing law for over 20 years. He has a complete understanding of the law and works diligently to obtain the best possible result in every case.

Qualification for Social Security Disability Benefits

The main issue in Social Security qualification matters is proving that you are totally disabled. Being totally disabled means that you are suffering from an illness or injury that is so severe that you will not be able to perform any type of work for at least 12 months or that the condition will likely result in your death. The criteria for total disability are very strict and legitimate disabilities are frequently rejected.

When you hire our firm, we will work with you to fully understand your disability and present the strongest possible argument to support your claim for benefits. If your application is denied, we will file a petition for reconsideration. If the reconsideration is not successful, we will move forward with the appeals process and represent you through the entire process.

Call for a Free Consultation

Contact our office today to discuss your Social Security qualification questions. We are available during regular business hours and by appointment evenings and weekends. You can reach us by phone at 888-734-7554 or via e-mail. We take every case on a contingency basis which means that you won't pay anything unless we secure benefits for you.

• Spinal Injuries

  Back and spinal cord injuries make even office work almost unbearable to endure. What may seem like a minor inconvenience one day may turn into an incapacitating injury the next.

• Mental Disorders

  Mental disorders and health issues can make going to work nearly impossible. You may be eligible to collect Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if you suffer from a disabling mental illness.

• Chronic Pain

  If you are suffering from an injury or illness that causes you such pain that you are unable to work, you may have a claim for Social Security disability benefits.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

  Rheumatoid arthritis is an extremely painful and debilitating condition that can make everyday tasks nearly impossible to perform.

• Fibromyalgia

  Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a serious condition that involves significant pain and near constant fatigue.

• Hepatitis C

  Severe cases of Hepatitis C can result in liver disease and can cause a variety of potentially debilitating symptoms that makes performing everyday tasks and work functions extremely difficult.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

  While most commonly associated with military personnel, post-traumatic stress disorder can impact people from all walks of life as a result of many different kinds of experiences.

• Headaches

  Chronic headache sufferers are dealing with a condition that can be debilitating to the point of an inability to function. When headaches are severe enough that you are unable to work, you may be able to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

• Chronic Fatigue

  Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) sufferers are physically and mentally exhausted the majority of the time. Other symptoms can include memory and concentration problems, joint and muscle pain, sore throat and pain in the lymph nodes.

• Multiple Sclerosis

  Multiple sclerosis is a disease that impacts the brain and spinal cord. In many cases, the effects of multiple sclerosis make it nearly impossible for victims to perform even the most basic tasks.

• Lupus

  Lupus is a condition that is referred to as an autoimmune disease which causes your immune system to attack healthy tissues rather than damaged ones. There are times when the symptoms of lupus can be so debilitating that the victim is not able to work.

• Cancer

  Anyone who has ever been diagnosed with cancer, or knows someone who has, understands what an aggressive and debilitating disease it can be.

• Depression & Bipolar Disorder

  The feelings of hopelessness or pessimism that come with depression or the dramatic mood swings in people suffering from bipolar disorder can make it nearly impossible to stay focused long enough to complete even the most basic daily tasks.

• Lung Disease

  From asthma to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung disease has the potential to leave its victims unable to function normally or perform basic job related tasks.

• Coronary Disease

  People dealing with coronary conditions like congestive heart failure and artery diseases can have a very hard time accomplishing even the most basic tasks on a daily basis.

• Diabetes

  Diabetes is a serious condition that affects millions of Americans. The condition can lead to serious nerve damage, vision problems and kidney failure that can make it nearly impossible to function normally.