Get the SSDI Benefits You Deserve – Experienced SSDI Attorney in Buford
Navigating the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) process can be overwhelming.
Whether you're applying for the first time or appealing a denial, dealing with the Social Security Administration (SSA) can feel like an uphill battle.
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At The Edmonson Law Firm, we help clients secure SSDI benefits in Georgia—so they can focus on their health and future instead of fighting bureaucratic red tape.
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If you’re wondering, “How long does it take to get disability in Georgia?” or “What’s the SSDI approval rate with a lawyer?”, you are not alone. The process is slow, frustrating, and often unfair to those who need benefits the most. That’s where we come in.
Who Qualifies for SSDI Benefits?
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet the following criteria:
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A severe, medically determinable impairment that has lasted (or is expected to last) at least 12 months
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The inability to perform substantial work (based on monthly earnings limits set by the SSA)
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The inability to perform past work
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The inability to perform any other job, based on your age, education, and work experience
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Many first-time applicants receive denials—not because they don’t qualify, but because they didn’t submit the right medical evidence or paperwork. An SSDI attorney can strengthen your case and improve your chances of approval.
How an SSDI Lawyer Can Help
Filing for disability benefits is more than just filling out a form—it’s about proving your case. The SSA looks for detailed medical documentation, work history, and evidence that shows your condition prevents you from working. A lawyer can help you avoid common mistakes that lead to denials.
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Here’s how we assist clients:
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Simplifying the process – We handle the paperwork, so you don’t have to.
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Applying for SSDI benefits – Ensuring every detail is properly submitted.
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Appealing denials – If your claim was denied, we fight to overturn it.
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Gathering medical evidence – Strong documentation increases approval rates.
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Preparing for hearings – We draft hearing briefs and represent you before an Administrative Law Judge.
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Giving you peace of mind – You focus on your health; we handle the rest.
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Wondering “What’s the SSDI approval rate with a lawyer?” Studies show that applicants with legal representation are more likely to win benefits than those who file alone. Let us fight for the benefits you deserve.
How Long Does It Take to Get Disability in Georgia?
The SSDI application process isn’t quick. On average, initial claims take three to six months—and most first-time applicants are denied. If your claim is denied, you’ll need to appeal, which can add several more months to the process.
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Appeal Timeline:
Initial Application – 3 to 6 months (Denial is common)
Reconsideration Appeal – 3 to 5 months
Hearing Level Appeal – 12+ months
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The longer you wait to take action, the longer your case will drag out. Working with an SSDI lawyer near you can help speed up the process and reduce delays.
Social Security Disability Benefits Calculator
Key Terms to Know:
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Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME):
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This is an average of your highest-earning years, adjusted for inflation, which helps the calculator understand how much you’ve earned over your working life.
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The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at your highest 35 years of earnings. If you worked less than 35 years, zeros are added for the missing years.
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Primary Insurance Amount (PIA):
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This is the amount you would receive each month if you start receiving benefits at your full retirement age.
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The PIA is calculated using a formula based on your AIME.
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Full Retirement Age (FRA):
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This is the age when you can start receiving full Social Security retirement benefits. For most people, it ranges from 65 to 67 years old.
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Even if you are applying for disability benefits, your FRA is considered in overall benefits planning.
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How the Calculator Works:
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Enter Your Total Lifetime Earnings:
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Input your estimated total earnings over your working life. This information can usually be found on your Social Security statement.
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Enter the Number of Years You’ve Worked:
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Provide the number of years you’ve been working. This helps to calculate your average monthly earnings.
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Steps to Calculate Your Benefits:
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Calculate AIME (Average Indexed Monthly Earnings):
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The calculator takes your total earnings and divides it by the total number of months you’ve worked (or 35 years if you worked less). This gives us your AIME.
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Calculate PIA (Primary Insurance Amount):
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The calculator uses your AIME to figure out your monthly benefit amount using the following steps:
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90% of the first $1,240 of your AIME is calculated.
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32% of your AIME that falls between $1,240 and $7,355 is added.
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15% of any AIME above $7,355 is added.
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Example Calculation:
Let's say your calculated AIME is $4,000. Here’s how your monthly benefit (PIA) is calculated:
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Calculate 90% of the first $1,240:
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90% of $1,240 = $1,116
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Calculate 32% of the amount over $1,240 (up to $7,355):
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The next portion is $4,000 - $1,240 = $2,760
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32% of $2,760 = $883.20
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No need to calculate the 15% portion because $4,000 is below $7,355.
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Add these amounts together:
$1,116 + $883.20 = $1,999.20
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So, your estimated monthly benefit (PIA) would be $1,999.20.
Total Lifetime Earnings ($)
Years Worked
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Please read our SSD Benefits Calculator disclaimer here.
TIP:
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Make sure to enter your earnings accurately to get a reliable estimate.
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Remember, this is just an estimate. Actual benefits may vary based on your full earnings record and other factors.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What are SSDI benefits in Georgia?
A: SSDI benefits provide financial assistance for individuals who cannot work due to a disability and have paid into the Social Security system through work credits.
Q: How do I apply for SSDI benefits in Georgia?
A: You can apply online at the SSA's website or visit your local Social Security office. However, having an SSDI attorney file your claim can improve your chances of approval.
Q: What are the eligibility requirements for SSDI benefits in Georgia?
A: To be eligible for SSDI benefits in Georgia, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and have earned enough work credits by paying into the Social Security system.
Q: How can an SSDI lawyer near me help with my claim?
A: An SSDI lawyer can help guide you through the application process, gather necessary documentation, and represent you in hearings and appeals if your claim is denied.
Q: Where can I find the best SSDI lawyer near me (or in Buford, Georgia)?
A: You can start by asking for recommendations from friends or family members or searching online for SSDI lawyers near you. Don't forget to check online reviews, and don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with John Edmonson to discuss your case and explore your options.
Q: Do I need an SSDI lawyer near me?
A: While you can apply without a lawyer, having legal representation increases approval rates—especially if your case requires an appeal or hearing before a judge.
By understanding the SSDI benefits in Georgia and working with an SSDI lawyer near you, you can increase your chances of securing the benefits you need. Don't hesitate to reach out to The Edmonson Law Firm for help and guidance throughout the SSDI application process.
SSDI Questionnaire
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