Are you struggling to get the Social Security benefits you need to support yourself and your family? Even applicants with serious medical conditions often face frustrating denials due to minor mistakes or technicalities. Having the right help can make a real difference as you go through this process.
The lawyers at Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer can step in to prepare your application, gather medical records, and respond to SSA questions. If you have already received a denial, we can guide you through the appeals process and represent you before a judge.
Contact our team now to arrange your free initial consultation with a Hazard disability lawyer. Our team is available around the clock to review your case and help you move forward.
The SSA’s Definition of Disability
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a precise definition of disability. To meet this definition, you must show that you have a physical or mental condition that prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). SGA means work that earns you more than a certain amount each month. In 2025, that amount is $1,620 per month ($2,700 if you are legally blind).
Your condition must also be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Short-term or partial disabilities do not meet this standard.
The SSA will look at how your condition limits daily activities and your ability to hold steady work to determine whether you qualify for benefits. Children have a different standard that focuses on how their condition affects age-appropriate activities.
What Is The Difference Between SSDI and SSI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are both disability benefit programs, but they are meant to serve different groups of people. SSDI is for disabled workers who have paid Social Security taxes long enough to earn the required credits. In most cases, you must have worked during at least five of the last ten years before your disability began. SSDI benefits include a monthly payment based on your past earnings and Medicare after two years.
SSI is for people who are disabled, blind, or older than 64 and have very limited income and resources, regardless of work history. This program provides a monthly payment to help recipients cover basic needs. In Kentucky, you automatically qualify for Medicaid if you receive SSI. In 2025, the maximum federal SSI payment is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple, though the amount can vary based on income and living arrangements. Some recipients qualify for extra payments on top of federal SSI.
How Do I Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits?
Social Security payments are subject to waiting periods in most cases, so you should apply for benefits as soon as you know you might have a qualifying condition. You can apply online, by phone, or in person by scheduling an appointment at a local Social Security office. The application process requires detailed medical records, work history, and proof of how your condition affects your daily life.
SSDI benefits have a five-month waiting period, so payments usually begin in the sixth full month after the date the SSA determines that your disability began. SSI payments can start the month after you file your application. The application process can be difficult, and many first-time claims are denied, but a lawyer can help gather the right evidence, present your case, and appeal denials if necessary.
What Is the Role of an SSD Lawyer?
An SSD lawyer guides applicants through every stage of the Social Security application process. From the start, a lawyer can review your eligibility, explain what information you’ll need to provide, and help you complete your application correctly. The SSA requires detailed medical and work records, and your attorney can make sure the evidence you submit clearly supports your claim.
If the SSA denies your initial application, a lawyer can prepare and file an appeal on your behalf. If your case progresses to the hearing stage, they can present your case to the judge, question witnesses, and address issues that could hurt your chances of approval. An SSA attorney can also keep track of deadlines and respond to SSA requests for additional information. This type of support can reduce errors and give you a stronger chance of success at each stage of the process.
How Can Hiring a Lawyer Help Your Case?
According to the SSA’s own data, only about 20 percent of first-time disability applications result in approval. A lawyer can strengthen your initial claim or an appeal by:
- Reviewing your application to make sure all required information is complete and accurate
- Gathering your medical records and organizing them in a way that supports your claim
- Working with your doctors to obtain detailed statements about your condition
- Demonstrating how your medical issues limit your ability to work and earn income
- Filing appeals accurately and on time if your initial application gets denied
- Preparing you for hearings and coaching you on how to answer questions you might face
- Presenting arguments and evidence to the judge that highlight the strengths of your case
Our Experience With Social Security Disability Cases
At Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer, we know how important Social Security benefits can be when you cannot work. Our lawyers have been helping Kentuckians like you fight for the support they need for more than 25 years. During that time, we have recovered over $400 million for our clients across injury, workers’ comp, and disability cases. When you choose us, you work directly with our partners, not just staff members. We’ll take time to understand your situation, review every detail of your case, and look for all possible benefits available to you.
Our Social Security disability attorneys bring Kentucky Courage™ to every matter we handle. That means standing up to the government if your claim is denied and doing the hard work to prepare your appeal. We are available 24/7, and your first consultation is always free. If you need help with a Social Security case in Hazard, Kentucky, our lawyers are here to fight for you.
Contact a Social Security Lawyer in Hazard
If you need help with your Social Security Disability case, the sooner you act, the better. Contact Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer today for your free consultation. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to answer your questions and explain how we can help.