If you live in Dallas and are unable to work due to illness or injury (for at least a year,) you may consider applying for Social Security Disability benefits. Each year, thousands of disabled Dallas residents apply for Social Security benefits. Most of these workers have paid into the Social Security system for years. However, a large majority of those who are applying for disability benefits in Dallas will see their claim denied. Nationwide, less than 30% of Social Security Disability applicants have their initial application approved. If this happens, you can appeal the decision, and although only a small number of claims are approved upon the first appeal, many more Dallas Social Security applicants are granted benefits at the second appeal, which consists of an administrative law judge hearing. Unfortunately, it could be two years or more before your hearing is scheduled.
To apply for Social Security benefits, go to your local Dallas Social Security office, or call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213. Although the application process is relatively straightforward, it’s never too early to consider hiring a Dallas Social Security Security Disability lawyer who may be able to increase the chances that your application will be improved without a lengthy wait for a hearing.
Dallas Health Resources
After a Dallas resident applies for Social Security Disability benefits their file will be reviewed by an employee from the Texas Department of Disability Determination Services (DDS.) This claims adjudicator will examine all of the evidence, including the application, reports completed by the disabled worker, and input from family members or friends, but by far the most critical type of evidence in a claim file is medical records. If you’re applying for Social Security in Dallas, it’s very important to have obtained regular medical treatment for your disabling conditions. If you’re having trouble affording this treatment, a few Dallas resources for free or reduced-cost medical care are below.
Metrocrest Family Medical Clinic
1 Medical Parkway
Dallas, TX 75234
(972) 484-8444
East Dallas Health Center
3320 Live Oak
Dallas, TX 75204
(214) 590-1000
Oak Cliff Health Center
300 North Ewing
Dallas, TX 75061
(214) 670-7481
Primary Medical Center
6350 E. Markingbird
Dallas, TX 75214
(214) 828-0448
Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Center
2922 B. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75315
(214) 426-3645
Brady Center Health Clinic
4009 Elm
Dallas, TX 75226
(214) 826-8330
Los Barrios Unidos Community Clinic
809 Singleton Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75212
(214) 571-6132
DALLAS Mental Health Resources
It’s equally important for Dallas Social Security disability applicants to obtain any necessary mental health treatment. If a psychiatric condition contributes to your inability to work and you’re having trouble getting help, you can contact:
Mental Health America of Greater Dallas
624 N. Good-Latimer
Dallas, TX 75204
(214) 871-2420
Dallas Supplementary Benefits
Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is the needs-based side of federal Social Security disability benefits. If you’re receiving SSI in Texas you may be eligible for an additional payment from the state. Texas SSI recipients who reside in nursing home or extended care facilities could receive a supplemental $60 payment.
Those who receive SSI in Dallas could also be eligible for assistance with healthcare expenses through the state’s Medicaid program. For more information, call the Medicaid Helpline at 1-800-252-8263, or simply dial “211” for information on all available benefits. You can also visit the “211 Texas” website at 211 Texas.
Your Dallas Social Security Disability Claim
The unfortunate truth is that even when they do everything right, many Dallas Social Security Disability applicants will still receive a denial. Sometimes medical records aren’t enough, and for that reason it may be a good idea to consult an experienced Dallas Social Security Disability attorney. A Dallas disability lawyer can be an invaluable asset during the stressful process. Although it can be beneficial to hire a Dallas Social Security attorney at any point, it’s even more important if you are appearing at a disability hearing.
Luckily, there’s no upfront cost to hire a qualified Dallas disability attorney. Texas disability lawyers are only paid when the claimant that they’re representing is awarded benefits. If your application isn’t approved, you won’t have to pay your Dallas Social Security disability lawyer. If your application is approved, their fee will consist of one-quarter of any “back benefits” that you receive (if it’s determined that you were disabled as of a date in the past.) It’s also capped at $6,000, no matter how much you receive in back benefits.
Contact a qualified Dallas Social Security disability lawyer for a free evaluation of your case.
