Social Security Disability Benefits Attorney in Illinois

Chicago Social Security Disability Lawyer for Determining Evidence of Total Disability

When applying for Social Security Disability benefits, if you are under 50 and in some cases over 50, it is necessary to prove you are totally disabled. The majority of claimants are denied benefits because they are not able to meet this standard. For this reason, it is important to work with an experienced Social Security Disability benefits lawyer who understands the process and what it takes to secure a successful outcome in your case.

At Pearson Disability Law, LLC, our sole mission is to help clients gain approval for the Social Security Disability Benefits they are eligible for. Jonathan L. Pearson, our managing attorney, has helped thousands of individuals in the Chicago area and throughout Illinois secure the disability benefits they deserve. He is a member of the Chicago Bar Association and National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR).

Mr. Pearson works with each client personally, helping them navigate the complex application process (and appeals process if necessary) and gather the necessary evidence to prove a total disability. He handles each case on a contingency basis, so you never pay attorney fees unless you win your case.

Medical Evidence Proving Total Disability

To be approved for Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must show the following:

• Your medical condition is expected to last a minimum of one year, or be fatal;
• You are unable to perform the work you did prior to your debilitating illness or injury; and
• You are unable to perform other work due to your condition.

To demonstrate total disability, you should have received treatment and have medical records from at least one acceptable treating source. In the eyes of the Social Security Administration (SSA), an “acceptable” source would be a licensed physician, psychologist, or psychiatrist. Examples of unacceptable sources include chiropractors, massage therapists and acupuncturists. Ideally, it is best to see a doctor who is a specialist in the particular condition you are alleging.

The disability examiner takes into account all records from acceptable sources, such as physician’s notes, X-rays, CAT scans, MRIs, laboratory tests, and psychological exams. If you have applied for Social Security Disability benefits, it is important to inform the doctors who are treating you so their records and notes accurately reflect your condition and inability to work.

Based on the medical evidence, there are three primary ways to show total disability. Your condition must either:

• Meet the specific criteria of one (or more) of the SSA listed impairments;
• Be medically equivalent in severity to one (or more) listed impairments; or
• Cause severe functional limitations that make you unable to perform work.

Evidence of total disability can be very difficult to prove. At Pearson Disability Law, LLC, Mr. Pearson thoroughly examines the specific circumstances of each client to determine the best course of action to prove you are disabled and cannot work. If you or a loved one needs assistance applying for Social Security Disability benefits in Illinois, contact our office today at 312-999-0999 for a free consultation.