Social Security Disability Attorneys in Knoxville, Tennessee

According to statistics from the Social Security Administration (SSA), about 70 million people received benefits from their programs in 2021. In Tennessee and across the United States, disabled adults and children with limited resources or income may be entitled to receive monthly payments through the Social Security disability program. However, there are specific requirements that an applicant must meet in order to qualify for disability benefits. 

If you're considering applying for Social Security disability benefits and you want to understand your rights and options, consulting with an experienced Tennessee Social Security disability attorney is imperative for detailed guidance. With more than 50 years of experience, our attorneys at Wykoff & Sikes, PLLC have the diligence and knowledge to advise and guide clients in the legal matters of Social Security disability benefits. 

Our attorneys can work to understand your unique circumstances, enlighten you about the eligibility requirements, and determine whether you qualify for disability benefits. Even if your benefits are denied, we will appeal the denial and help you pursue your deserved disability benefits. Wykoff & Sikes, PLLC proudly serves clients across Knoxville, Tennessee, and the surrounding areas, including Sevierville, Crossville, Chattanooga, and Johnson City.

Social Security Disability Insurance vs. Supplemental Security Income

In the United States, people with disabilities may qualify for two forms of benefits: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Here are some differences between the two. 

Work Credits: Eligibility for SSDI is based on the person's work history. Conversely, eligibility for SSI benefits is not determined by the person's work history. Rather, you may qualify for SSI benefits if you have limited assets and income. 

Disability: SSDI benefits are for disabled adults and children. In contrast, SSI benefits are for older adults and individuals who are blind or disabled. 

A skilled lawyer can evaluate your unique situation and determine your eligibility for Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. 

Qualifying for Benefits 

Here are the eligibility requirements for SSDI benefits: 

• You must have worked in employment covered by Social Security. 

• You must have a medical condition that meets Social Security's definition of disability. 

Under Social Security rules, a person is considered to be disabled if: 

• They are unable to work or engage in substantial gainful activity due to their health. 

• They are unable to do a previous job or adjust to new employment due to their medical condition. 

• Their health condition has lasted or will last for one year or more or cause the person's death. 

However, not all applications for SSDI benefits are approved. Even if you meet the eligibility requirements, the SSA may still deny or terminate your disability benefits due to a number of reasons. 

Reasons That Social Security Disability Is Denied

Here are some reasons why your Social Security disability benefits may be denied: 

• You have too much earnings. 

• Your benefits were denied previously. 

• There is a lack of medical evidence to prove your disability. 

• You failed to follow your physician's treatment or therapy recommendations. 

• You failed to cooperate or provide additional information requested by the SSA. 

• Your disability isn't severe or won't last long enough. 

• The SSA was unable to contact you. 

• Your disability is due to alcoholism, drug abuse, or addiction. 

• You have a criminal record or felony conviction. 

• You committed fraud. 

• You may be able to return to your previous employment. 

If you believe that the SSA denied your disability benefits unfairly, you should reach out to an experienced Social Security disability attorney immediately. Your legal counsel can investigate the reason for the denial and help file your appeal. 

Appealing a Denial

Here are the available options or levels to appeal a denial of your disability benefits: 

• File a request for the SSA to reconsider their decision. 

• Request for a hearing with an administrative law judge. 

• Ask for an evaluation with the Appeals Council. 

• File a federal district court action with the U.S. District Court. 

Generally, you have up to 60 days after receiving the notice of denial to appeal the decision. A seasoned lawyer can explore your available legal options to appeal the denial, help file your appeal request, and guide you through the legal procedures involved. 

Work With Trusted Social Security Disability Attorneys

Applying for Social Security disability benefits can help provide you with the financial support you need if you're disabled and unable to work. However, there are several complexities involved in applying for disability benefits, and your claims might be denied. Therefore, consulting with a trusted Social Security disability attorney is imperative for detailed guidance and to advocate for your legal rights. 

At Wykoff & Sikes, PLLC, our attorneys are committed to protecting the best interests of disabled adults and children and their families. Whether you're applying for disability benefits or you need help appealing a denial, our legal team can help file your claims, provide the necessary documentation, and represent you diligently at every phase. Above all, we will fight vigorously for your rights and make sure you receive your rightful disability benefits. 

Social Security Disability Attorneys in Knoxville, Tennessee 

If you need assistance applying for Social Security disability benefits or want to appeal a denial, contact us at Wykoff & Sikes, PLLC today for a simple consultation. Our dedicated team can offer you the highly-personalized legal counsel and reliable advocacy you need. We're proud to serve clients across Knoxville, Sevierville, Crossville, Chattanooga, and Johnson City, Tennessee.