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We’re Here to Help You Secure Your Benefits

If you’re struggling to apply or get approved for Social Security disability benefits, Disability Advocates of America provides experienced guidance and compassionate support to help you build a strong claim and secure your benefits. Get started today with a free case review.

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Your Social Security Disability Benefits Lawyer in Santa Barbara, CA

If a medical condition prevents you from working, you’re not alone and you don’t have to face the Social Security system by yourself. Every year, thousands of people in California apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) only to be met with confusing paperwork, strict requirements, and frustrating delays. At Disability Advocates of America, our Social Security disability benefits lawyer in Santa Barbara helps people just like you navigate the process with confidence and compassion.

Whether you’re applying for SSDI for the first time or appealing a denial, Dr. Bill LaTour and his team are here to guide you every step of the way. With decades of experience helping disabled individuals across California, we know what it takes to present a strong claim and secure the benefits you may be entitled to.

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Getting Help Is Easy

Just give us a call or fill out our online form and we will come to you or meet with you over the phone. You don’t even have to leave your house!

You Are Not Alone

The Social Security system can be tough to navigate, but you’re not alone. Our team of disability advocates will fight for the benefits you may qualify for!

Support You Can Afford

There’s no cost to get started with your free case review! We also don’t have any upfront costs, and if we don’t win your case, you won’t owe us a thing.

Table of Contents

Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal program managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It provides monthly benefits to individuals who have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to a qualifying disability.

Unlike Supplemental Security Income (SSI), SSDI eligibility is based on your work history and disability status, not your income or assets.

To qualify, your medical condition must:

  • Prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA);
  • Last or be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death; and
  • Be listed in the SSA’s Blue Book (or comparable to a listed condition).

Qualifying for SSDI in Santa Barbara

If you live in Santa Barbara and can no longer work due to a medical condition, you may qualify for SSDI. To be eligible for these benefits, you must have:

  • Worked in jobs covered by Social Security, typically at least 5 of the past 10 years;
  • Earned enough work credits, which are based on your age and work history; and
  • A disabling condition that prevents you from performing your previous job or adjusting to other types of work.

Some of the most common qualifying disabilities include:

Because the SSA applies strict criteria when reviewing claims, reach out to a SSDI attorney in Santa Barbara who can help determine if you qualify and guide you through each step, strengthening your claim and improving your chances of approval.

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The SSDI Application Process

Applying for SSDI involves multiple steps, detailed paperwork, and strict deadlines, which is why many applicants in Santa Barbara turn to a disability lawyer for guidance.

Here’s what to expect when applying for SSDI:

  1. Gather your medical evidence: Collect all relevant treatment records, diagnostic test results, and written statements from your doctors describing how your condition limits your ability to work. The stronger your medical documentation, the better your chances of success.
  2. Submit your SSDI application: You can file online, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. Be sure to double-check all forms and supporting materials before submitting.
  3. SSA review process: The SSA will evaluate your application, contact your healthcare providers, and may request additional information or schedule a medical exam with an independent doctor.
  4. Decision stage: After the review, you’ll receive a written notice of approval or denial. If denied, you have the right to appeal within a limited timeframe.

Because over half of initial SSDI claims are denied, even qualified applicants can struggle to get approved. Common mistakes, such as incomplete medical records, missed deadlines, or unclear descriptions of your limitations, can delay or derail your claim.

Working with a trusted Santa Barbara SSDI attorney can make a significant difference. An attorney can organize your medical documentation, communicate directly with the SSA, and represent you during hearings. With professional guidance, you can avoid costly mistakes and increase your chances of receiving your disability benefits.

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Steps to Take If Your SSDI Claim Is Denied

A denial isn’t the end of your case. It’s just the beginning of the appeals process, which allows you to present new evidence and clarify why you qualify for benefits. You have 60 days from the date of your denial to file your appeal, so acting quickly is essential.

The SSDI appeals process generally includes 4 stages:

  1. Reconsideration: Your case is reviewed by someone at the SSA who was not involved in the original decision. This is your chance to submit additional medical evidence, correct any errors, and strengthen your claim.
  2. Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If your claim is denied again, you can request a hearing before an ALJ. This is one of the most critical stages in the process and where many applicants are finally approved. During the hearing, you can present testimony, submit updated medical records, and call witnesses to support your case.
  3. Appeals Council Review: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can ask the Social Security Appeals Council to review the judge’s decision. The Council can either uphold, reverse, or return your case for another hearing.
  4. Federal Court Review: As a final step, you can file a civil lawsuit in federal court. This stage is complex and requires detailed legal arguments based on federal law and prior case decisions.

At Disability Advocates of America, we understand how stressful this process can be, especially when you’re already facing health and financial challenges. Our disability advocates help you build a stronger appeal by gathering persuasive medical documentation, preparing you for your hearing, and representing you before the judge.

Benefits of Working With a Santa Barbara SSDI Attorney

Working with a knowledgeable Social Security disability benefits attorney in Santa Barbara can make all the difference in your case. The SSDI process can be confusing, full of deadlines, and filled with complex requirements, but with the right guidance, you can move forward with confidence.

Here’s how an SSDI attorney can help you:

  • Review and strengthen your medical evidence: Your attorney will carefully review your records, identify missing documentation, and work directly with your doctors to ensure your condition is fully supported.
  • Handle all communication with the SSA: From initial filing to appeals, your lawyer will manage correspondence, track deadlines, and ensure nothing is overlooked.
  • Prepare and submit complete, accurate paperwork: Avoid costly mistakes that can delay or derail your claim.
  • Represent you at your disability hearing: If your claim reaches the hearing stage, your attorney will prepare your testimony, question expert witnesses, and make sure your story is clearly presented.
  • Develop a personalized strategy: Every case is different. A lawyer can evaluate your unique circumstances and build the strongest possible argument for approval.
  • Provide peace of mind: Having an experienced advocate on your side allows you to focus on your health while your case is handled professionally.

Dr. Bill LaTour and his team at Disability Advocates of America help individuals in Santa Barbara and across California obtain the disability benefits they need. We understand how important these benefits are for your financial security and well-being, and we’re committed to fighting for you every step of the way. If you’re struggling to get approved for SSDI, don’t face the process alone.

We offer free case reviews to help you understand your eligibility, your rights, and the best strategy for your SSDI claim. There’s no cost and no obligation to find out how we can help.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Social Security Disability Insurance is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you’ve paid over time. You must have earned enough work credits to qualify. Supplemental Security Income, on the other hand, is a need-based program for individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.

Usually, no. SSDI benefits are based on your own work credits from paying Social Security taxes. However, in some cases, dependents or surviving family members of workers who paid into the system may qualify for benefits. If you haven’t worked enough to earn credits, you may want to explore SSI instead.

The amount you receive depends on your average lifetime earnings before your disability. The Social Security Administration uses a specific formula to calculate your monthly payment, and the exact amount varies from case to case.

Your chances of being approved for disability benefits are significantly higher when you work with an SSDI lawyer. A lawyer can make sure your claim is properly documented, represent you at hearings, and prevent avoidable mistakes that often lead to denials.

The SSDI process can take several months to more than a year, depending on your case and whether an appeal is needed. Delays are common, but submitting a complete, well-documented application and working with an attorney can help speed up the process and improve your chances of success.

Talk to a Social Security Disability Benefits Lawyer in Santa Barbara Today

If you’re unable to work because of a serious medical condition, you don’t have to face the Social Security system alone. Dr. Bill LaTour and his team are dedicated to helping people in Santa Barbara get the disability benefits they need. From gathering medical evidence to appealing denied claims, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way.

Let a trusted Santa Barbara Social Security disability benefits lawyer guide you through the process with experience, compassion, and determination. Contact Disability Advocates of America today to schedule your free case review.

Related Articles & Info

General Information

The Disability Application Process

Eligibility Requirements

Does Your Condition Qualify?

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