Social Security

Social Security programs operated by the federal government provide financial assistance to people who can no longer work due to age or a disability. Understanding the types of benefits that may be available often involves navigating a network of complex federal laws and regulations. At Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil, our New Hampshire Social Security lawyers recognize that knowledgeable advice and steadfast advocacy can make a critical difference when you are pursuing benefits. For more than 100 years, we have diligently represented clients throughout Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties. We also can assist you if you need an injury attorney or representation in a workers’ compensation claim, among other legal matters.

Individuals who can no longer work due to a disability may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. To be eligible for SSDI benefits, a claimant must have worked in a job covered by Social Security recently and for a certain period of time, and the claimant must be suffering from a qualifying disability. This medical requirement centers on whether the individual has a medically determinable physical or mental disability that is expected to last one year or longer, or result in death. The disability must prevent the claimant from performing any substantial and gainful work. In many cases, an SSDI claim requires proof that the severity of the condition renders the individual incapable of engaging in not only his or her present employment but also any other type of job.

Qualifying SSDI beneficiaries may receive monthly financial assistance, education and job training, health care coverage, work incentives, and other benefits. If a claim is denied, applicants may contest the decision through a system of appeals. At all times during the benefits process, claimants may be represented by an attorney.

Many people include Social Security benefits as part of their retirement plans. Individuals who work and pay Social Security taxes will eventually receive a benefits payment based on their career earnings. Also, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly payments to people with little household income and limited financial resources, and who are 65 years or older, blind, or disabled. Many individuals who qualify for SSI benefits may also be entitled to Social Security retirement or SSDI benefits. However, unlike Social Security retirement and SSDI benefits, SSI eligibility is not connected to work history. In New Hampshire, SSI beneficiaries may receive supplemental monthly payments from the state in addition to their federal SSI payments.

The Social Security Administration oversees additional government programs for minors with disabilities, surviving spouses and family members, adults who became disabled when they were minors, and others. To learn more about these programs and the government benefits to which you or your loved ones may be entitled, discuss your circumstances with an experienced Social Security attorney.

If you have concerns regarding your Social Security claim or a denial of benefits, the New Hampshire Social Security attorneys at Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil can provide trustworthy legal guidance and representation. If you are pursuing benefits after a workplace accident, moreover, a workers’ compensation lawyer at our firm can assist you. From our office in Laconia, we have served residents of Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties in a wide range of legal matters. Contact us at (603) 524-4380 or online to schedule a consultation to discuss your options.