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Social Security Disability FAQ’s
CHICAGO SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LAWYER
A disabled worker, the spouse of a disabled worker, or disabled children may be eligible for social security disability benefits depending on the circumstances. An individual is disabled if unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity because of physical or mental impairment.
How Does Social Security Define Disability?
An individual is disabled if unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity because of physical or mental impairment. This generally means that the individual must not only be unable to work in any previous occupation but also unable to do any other work based on your age, education, and work experience. The impairment(s) must be established by medical evidence and must be expected to result in death or expected to last at least 12 months.
What is the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is acquired while working and paying into the social security system through payroll taxes. You must meet non-medical criteria and medical criteria to receive benefits under the disability portion of the social security program.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is an income supplement program funded by the government to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income. It provides payments to help individuals meet their basic living needs.
May I Work and Receive Social Security Benefits?
If you are working and your earnings exceed a certain amount each month, you will generally not be considered disabled. This amount changes every year. Once found disabled, if you choose to return to work, Social Security has programs to assist you with this transition while still paying benefits.
If found disabled, will I receive Medical Coverage?
Yes. Twenty-four months after the date you are found disabled, you are eligible for Medicare benefits, which includes Part A (hospital benefits) and Part B (medical benefits). You are also eligible for Medicare Part D, which provides prescription drug coverage.
Don’t Lose Hope If Denied Disability
Once denied, it is essential to properly present the evidence on reconsideration. Comerford Law Office will review your claim at the reconsideration level and we will submit the information you or the Social Security Administration may have overlooked to increase your chances of approval.
If your claim for Social Security disability benefits is denied, do not give up hope. The vast majority of Social Security Claims are denied before a hearing. At Comerford Law Office, we assist individuals applying for disability benefits in Illinois. We offer a free consultation to discuss your claim and do not receive a fee unless your claim is approved.
Our Cases
Results That Matter
$278,000
Veterans Benefits Appeal
Retroactive pay regarding the failure to account for all the veteran’s medical conditions.
$220,000
Veterans Benefits Appeal
Military Sexual Trauma case
$225,000
ERISA
Disability associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
$202,000
Veterans Benefits Appeal
Retroactive pay regarding a PTSD misdiagnosis.
$250,000
Veterans Benefits Appeal
PTSD resulting in Unemployability
$110,000
Veterans Benefits Appeal
Traumatic brain injury case
$120,000
Social Security
Wrongfully denied SSA claim
$128,000
Veterans Benefits Appeal
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
$100,000
Agent Orange
Non-presumptive cardiac impairment linked to Agent Orange
$40,000
Agent Orange
Agent Orange exposure case that led to Parkison’s disease.
$77,000
ERISA
ERISA long term disability benefits.
Testimonials
What Our Clent's Have To Say
Annalie W.
I had a very pleasant experience working with attorney Comerford. The tasks we needed to complete were very time sensitive & he managed to help me in my case. I am very grateful for his assistance & I can tell he really cares about his clients, I highly recommend contacting Attorney Comerford if you are having issues finding an attorney that will listen to your case.
- Annalie W. -
Brittney R.
This law firm is absolutely amazing. I've been dealing with my VA claims on my own for 5 years. After my last denial from the VA I decided to hire Comerford Law. Best decision I could've made. Attorney Comerford was able to get my denial overturned and get me backpay. He made this process so easy on me. Attorney Comerford and his firm handled all communication with the VA. He was quick in responding to me and answering all of…
- Brittney R. -
Jennie W.
I have worked with Comerford law firm for many years on my VA cases. Attorney James Comerford was direct and very diligent working and winning my 100% unemployability case and my more recent back pay compensation appeal cases. I am incredibly grateful for his patience, hard work and professionalism, he definitely knows the ins and outs of the many (sometimes) complicated laws. I highly recommend him. I wish everyone the best, patience is 🔑
- Jennie W. -
Alex
Mr. Comerford is not only a great lawyer but he is a great human being. He was with me step by step with my disability case and went above and beyond lawyer duties. He cared for my well being and that meant a lot to me and I'll never forget.
- Alex -
Travis H.
I am writing this review on behalf of my Father, Frank Hise. Jim represented my father to help him get his VA disability benefits to help him obtain 100% disability which is well deserved. My father and mother are not easy people to work with and have a hard time dealing with anything different so Jim had his work cut out for him. He was patient and extremely helpful throughout the process. Jim worked for many years helping my dad…
- Travis H. -
John P.
It is not always certain when you are in the hands of good company. Mainly for the inevitable reasons of misfortune, bad experiences, or overall gullibility. It's hard to predict where life is going at all times but most importantly you need to know who to call when life goes sideways and you are in need of legal advocacy at a moments notice. This call to service can only be met by one professional team in the Chicagoland area and…
- John P. -
Shannon F.
Jim is a wonderful advocate for Veterans.
- Shannon F. -
Stephen P.
If you're reading this review, it probably means things aren't going that well for you. You're reading this because you need help. I know this feeling also, and it can be a dreadful experience when looking for that help as it relates to lawyers. Well, the good news is this, the search is over. Mr. Comerford is just a good human being but more than that; he knows what he is doing. After calling around and spending weeks explaining my…
- Stephen P. -
Josh B.
Jim, was the only attorney that believed in my case and took knowing we had obstacles but would win. Jim was great to work with and always made time for my calls and in the end, won my VA case for me with retro pay. Hands down the go-to VA Attorney to hire.
- Josh B. -
Timothy C.
The professional services I received from James Comerford were totally professional and amazing. After being denied my VA benefits several times and misrepresented by others, I am grateful to say James Comerford won my appeal with the VA. I was treated with respect and dignity from the time I called his office to speak with staff all the way to Jim himself calling me. I am forever grateful to the great staff and James Comerford for winning my appeal.
- Timothy C. -
Elliot J.
I really appreciate Attorney Comerford. He won my case with no problems. I would recommend you guys out there to let Attorney Comerford to take your case. Attorney Comerford you rock.
- Elliot J. -
Client of Comerford Law Office
James Comerford demonstrates he is a lawyer that will help veterans seek the compensation they deserve. He does not give up too easily. His track record proved to me, I needed his support and assistance. He was the hope I was looking for to put hope and life back into my claim and give it some respect, so those on the Board of Appeals would take my case a little more seriously. He provided me with hope and supported me…
- Client of Comerford Law Office -
Very professional
Comerford Law did an outstanding job helping with my VA claim. Jim was very responsive to emails and phone calls. I highly recommend this law firm. Very professional. Mr. Comerford has done an excellent job working through my appeals and my unemployability approval. Hands down the best VA attorney in the Chicago area!
- David V. -
I highly recommend him
I want to thank James for a job well done. He was able to get all my back pay and my disability rating from 50% to 70%. I can't say enough on a job well done. And very accessible when you have a question. I highly recommend him on your VA cases. In fact, I've given the local VSO his Office Website for problems they have encountered with the VA process. Thank you, James.
- Doug B. -
The Real Deal
What I liked about Jim Comerford from the start was that his Dad was a Vietnam veteran. He understood more than the average person. Jim took over my case well before bladder cancer was on the presumptive list. He stayed with me the entire time via two claim rejections, my final hearing, a VES interview, and whatever else the VA threw our way. He handled all the details. Telephones were always answered by a real person (Jim) and answers didn’t…
- Samuel M. -
Very happy client
Comerford law puts 110% into getting what his VA clients sacrificed so much for and gets results. I give Comerford law a 5 star review.
- Richard S. -
No Better Choice than Comerford
From the start, Mr Comerford was prompt, matter of fact and yet empathetic. WHen we first spoke on the phone, Mr Comerford took the time to listen to my military history and then to help formulate a plan based on my circumstances. I had access to Mr Comerford by both email and phone. I was never denied time or a call. I am convinced that by using Mr Comerford's services, I received the best rating based on my circumstances. As…
- Mike -
Jim is very thorough
Jim is very thorough. I have been getting the run around by the VA since I initially filed in 2014 and just had my BVA hearing so I have not yet received a decision from the judge. I previously had the American Legion and then the DAV as representatives and they truly dropped the ball. Jim was able to show and explain to me where mistakes had been made and he also helped me to retrieve documents I thought had…
- Kara C. -
Disability case
My lawyer James Comerford did an awesome job for me and my wife for my disability case. And we did win my disability case after fighting the system. I would want him on my side. I would like to thank him he is a great guy.
- James -
A Miracle Worker
My husband a Vietnam Vet filed a claim for an increased rating due to his PTSD, depression and other issues. in 2011. If the Veteran approved a claim it was one that stated we agree the claim condition exists but it is non-compensable. For many years we had someone else working with us and was disappointed with their ability to help us. Many times I filed the paperwork myself. It reached the point where I almost gave up hope. Then…
- Yvonne P. -
Great Service!
Mr. Comerford is a brilliant lawyer who assisted me with my VA disability case. I had been denied in the past, and he knew exactly what to do. Thankfully, he resolved my issue with the VA, getting me the rating I deserved. I am very happy and pleased with his service. I highly recommend Mr. Comerford for your disability needs if you are having problems. He is professional and responds very quickly whenever you may have questions or concerns.
- Michelle -
Knowledgeable
Jim has been unbelievable in my VA disability case. He is down to earth, compassionate, realistic, and knowledgeable. Jim explains everything so you can understand and treats you with the utmost respect. I greatly appreciate is his rapid response to calls and emails. If he is unable to take your call he gets back to you very fast. Jim helped me get the rating I deserved and kept me informed along the way. He even found increased ratings where I…
- TJ -
Ensuring that our children are not forgotten.
I emailed Mr. Comerford concerning my son, a Gulf War era vet with a disability incurred during a deployment. My son was later denied VA disability benefits and I was inquiring with Mr. Comerford about an appeal. My son was and is currently treated by the VA’s medical professionals monthly. I have great respect and sincere appreciation for all that these folks have done, and will do, in order to help my boy live as normal of a life as…
- J. Justice -
Someone You Should Know
More than a decade of fighting the VA for benefits and traveling through the delays and denials. I concluded that I was in need of someone who really who really cares in helping a veteran. After having various service officers I was still feeling left behind. I made the decision in retaining someone who new how to drive through the roads of delay and denials and that someone you should know is James Comerford.
- Curt R. -
Wish I’d contacted Comerford Law sooner
I approached The Comerford Law Office because I had been working on my VA claim for over 5 years with little progress. Jim Comerford helped me by compiling the necessary documents and professional opinions needed for my claim. The result was that I finally received the hearing I had been waiting years for. Not only did I get my hearing, but Jim was there to represent me and give the correct, relevant information that was vital to my claim being…
- Valerie -
So thankful
He assisted me with my case and did an outstanding job. I am very thankful!
- Tania R. -
Amazing Lawyer
I was on full disability in 2005 i gave it up because i thout i could wor 3 yrs later i was back where i started, I found Mr. Comerford by accident, let me tell you he went to bat for me, he worked for a large law firm where everyone was just a file/number, he opened his own practice, small but knows everyone personally and by name, when I was down he didn't quit, when the judge denied me…
- Kathleen F. -
Disability Case
I contacted Jim after my first denial for SS Disability. He was referred to me by a good friend who had retained him for her Disability odyssey as well. My Disability case was somewhat difficult because I didn’t have a nice, large cache of medical documentation to back up my claim. Despite this and other complications Jim helped me get through my hearing and I received a fully favorable decision from the Judge and now I am just waiting to…
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Simply put, a great lawyer there for your needs, and is very understanding about your concerns!
James is an absolutely great lawyer. He fully understands his area of expertise, he’s quick to answer any questions with clear, concise directions on how to proceed. His insight into understanding how to navigate with many case laws and government agencies helped me as his client better understand the case law and it’s ways. James is quick to answer emails and phone calls, and made me feel very comfortable. I highly, highly recommended James for his case law specialties. A…
- Anton/Tony -
Patient, kind, trustworthy, and simply the best
Jim is absolutely one of the nicest, most compassionate, and intelligent lawyers out there. He is fast to answer any question with clear, concise direction. His insight into understanding how to navigate with many government agencies helps his clients in many ways. Jim is quick to answer emails and calls, and makes his clients feel very comfortable. Highly, highly recommended.
- a Social Security client -
Very thorough lawyer
Jim is a good lawyer that helped us through a difficult purchase of our home(he also was the lawyer for the sale of our previous home). We had quite a few issues with the details of the purchase with both the bank and the seller that James made sure were resolved as quickly as possible. When the selling lawyer would not respond to phone calls/emails Jim physically went to the lawyer’s office and made sure that the final details were…
- Chad -
The Best disability lawyer
I had gone on disability before and got better so I went back to work again. When I got bad again and applied for disability, it was unbelievable. IT was hell. I got hooked up with Jim, and he was an incredible human being as well as a wonderful lawyer. I definitely recommend anyone who needs a disability lawyer to use Jim.
- Msgr Equality ScottWest -
5 STAR ATTORNEY – 5 STAR EXPERIENCE – 5 STAR GUY
Jim has been representing me through my Social Security Disability adventure for 6 years. I knew my case would not be easy because of my disabilities. I contacted Jim after I initially applied for SSDI. My SSDI case was denied the first time through. Unfortunately, the Rheumatologist I had been seeing for 17 years kept horrible records, barely recording any medical history. After reviewing them, Jim knew this was going to be an uphill battle, but battle on he did.…
- Lorrie -
Skillful and Knowledgeable, an Outstanding Disability Attorney
I was referred to Jim after my SSDI Request for Redetermination was denied. My original disability claim had been filed by a company claiming to specialize in disability---yet I was never allowed to speak with an actual attorney and I did everything except the original electronic submission of the claim---which was compiled by a low-level intake person. I dismissed them after my original claim was denied. I was immediately delighted to have found Jim. My first call was with Jim…
- Nancy -
Helping Veterans Since 2008.
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