Pennsylvania Social Security Disability Lawyers
When a medical condition prevents you from working, the Social Security disability process can become another source of stress. Pisanchyn Law Firm helps Pennsylvania claimants understand applications, denials, evidence, and appeals.
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How Our Pennsylvania SSDI Attorneys Can Help
Social Security disability cases focus on medical evidence, work history, functional limitations, treatment, and whether a claimant can perform substantial work under Social Security rules.
Our team reviews denial notices, medical records, treating-provider information, work history, prior applications, deadlines, and the stage of the claim to identify what evidence and next steps may be important.
- Your diagnoses, treatment, medications, and functional limitations
- Work history and why your condition prevents sustained employment
- Application or denial notices and appeal deadlines
- Medical records, provider opinions, and other evidence already submitted
Tell Us What Happened
Free consultation. Tell us what happened and we’ll review the next steps with you.
Initial Applications
A complete application should accurately describe medical conditions, treatment, work history, and day-to-day limitations.
Denied Claims
Many claimants receive denials. The notice and record should be reviewed before deciding the next appeal step.
Reconsideration & Appeals
Appeal stages have deadlines and may require updated medical evidence and more detailed functional information.
Disability Hearings
A hearing can involve testimony about work history, symptoms, treatment, daily activities, and vocational issues.
Medical Evidence
Consistent treatment records, testing, specialist notes, medications, and documented limitations can be important.
Work & Functional Limits
The key issue is often not simply the diagnosis, but how symptoms and limitations affect the ability to perform sustained work.
More Social Security Disability Resources
Explore the related Social Security programs and appeal information already covered across our site.
What Should You Do If Your Disability Claim Is Denied?
A denial notice should not be ignored. Appeal rights are time-sensitive, and the next step depends on the stage of the claim.
- Read the denial notice carefully and note the stated reason and appeal deadline.
- Keep copies of every Social Security notice, form, submission, and medical record.
- Continue appropriate medical treatment and follow up with providers about ongoing symptoms and limitations.
- Update the record when there are new diagnoses, testing, medications, hospitalizations, or changes in function.
- Document how the condition affects sitting, standing, walking, lifting, concentration, attendance, and other work-related abilities.
- Seek help before missing an appeal deadline or submitting information you do not understand.
A strong disability claim connects the medical evidence to specific functional limits. The diagnosis matters, but Social Security also focuses on what a person can and cannot reliably do in a work setting.
Medical Evidence Must Explain Functional Limitations
Social Security evaluates more than the name of a condition. The record should help show how symptoms, treatment, side effects, and limitations affect sustained work activity.
What Types of Social Security Benefits May Be Involved?
The program and potential benefits depend on work history, insured status, income and resources, disability findings, and other eligibility rules.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Potential past-due benefits when awarded
- Ongoing monthly benefits when eligibility continues
- Medicare eligibility tied to SSDI under applicable rules
- Medicaid eligibility that may accompany SSI under applicable rules
- Dependent or auxiliary benefits in qualifying cases
- Appeal rights after an unfavorable determination
Serving Scranton, Harrisburg & Pittsburgh
Our statewide practice is supported by offices in Northeastern, Central, and Western Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Social Security Disability FAQs
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is generally tied to a claimant’s insured work history, while SSI is a needs-based program with income and resource rules. Some people may potentially qualify under both programs.
Does a diagnosis automatically qualify me for disability?
No. Social Security generally considers the medical evidence and how the condition limits the ability to perform sustained work.
What if my claim was denied?
A denial can be appealed, but deadlines apply. The reason for denial and the existing medical and vocational evidence should be reviewed.
Do I need to keep treating while my claim is pending?
Ongoing appropriate treatment can be important both medically and as evidence showing symptoms, diagnoses, response to treatment, and functional limits.
What happens at a disability hearing?
A hearing may include testimony from the claimant and questions about medical conditions, work history, daily activities, and functional limitations. Vocational or medical experts may also participate depending on the case.
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY ATTORNEY SERVICES
PROUDLY SERVING PITTSBURGH HARRISBURG SCRANTON & ALL SURROUNDING AREAS
PA SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LAWYERS
Our PA Social Security Disability Lawyers have helped numerous disabled clients obtain the benefits they deserve from The Social Security Administration after initial denial.
WHO CAN APPLY FOR SSD?
Social Security Disability (SSD) is typically for United States citizens and/or permanent residents.
- If filing for SSD you must not yet be eligible for retirement benefits.
- Your work history must be recent and you must have enough time worked.
- Finally, you must fall under The Social Security Administration’s definition of disabled.
Above it states that work history must be recent and you must have enough work time in your history. The Social Security Administration uses a credit system to determine if one qualifies for benefits under SSDI. Depending on your income level you earn credits within a given year. If at a certain age you have enough credits through your work history you can qualify for SSDI benefits.
HOW DOES THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION DETERMINE DISABILITY?
The Social Security Administration has established a Five-Step Evaluation process to determine whether a person is disabled. If a person fails to meet the requirements of any one step, they are determined to be “not disabled” under the Social Security Act.
DO YOU NEED AN ATTORNEY TO APPLY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS?
Without an attorney, you will have no one there to walk you through the different steps of the disability appeal process. The first stage of the appeal process is called the Request for Reconsideration stage. Fewer than 20 percent of appeals are approved at this stage of the claim process. The next stage of appeals, which almost all denied applicants must go through, is called a Social Security Disability hearing.
When you attend your SSD hearing you will be appearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Most applicants should have legal representation during this stage of the appeal process. This is where you will have your greatest chance of overturning the Social Security Administration’s decision to deny your disability benefits. Nearly two-thirds of appeals are won at the disability hearing.
The Social Security Filing and Appeal process is very complex and if you don’t know the ins and outs of the process it could hurt your case. Please, call toll free at 1-800-444-5309 for a free consultation. We have offices in Scranton, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Harrisburg and will travel to you.
Our Pennsylvania Personal Injury Attorneys care for you the person while also representing you the client.
When you or a loved one suffers an injury due to someone else’s negligence who you turn to for legal advice and representation matters. The Pisanchyn Law Firm’s Pennsylvania personal injury attorneys will represent you skillfully, compassionately, and most of all, aggressively.
Our lawyers, staff, and paralegals are specially trained to guide you and help you through each step of your injury case. We have the resources, including premiere doctors and other experts around the country, to not only handle your case but also give it and you the personal attention and care both deserve. Call 1-800-444-5309 or fill out this form for a free consultation now!
I rate the Pisanchyn law firm five stars if I had a way to rate them 100 stars I would they were so kind so helpful and so caring in a very scary time of my life. I don’t know what I would’ve done without Mr. Pisanchyn and his staff. No matter what I needed they were there morning, noon, or night Mr.Pisanchyn was even kind enough to give me his own personal cell phone number in case I ever needed him day or night. This is the second time I’ve used his law firm and I will use him 100 more Times. I fully recommend his law firm to anyone and everyone in need of a good defense lawyer. I’ve already recommended him at least a dozen times and everyone I told to use his law firm has been more than satisfied. Some of them even called me and said thank you for recommending him. Thank you so much mike for everything you did for me and my family.
– JESSICA
Nine years ago I was in a nasty car accident and didn’t know where to turn, with a lot of luck I ended up calling Mike to represent me. It was the best thing I ever did. He never treated me like a client, I made a friend. The friendship extended to the entire office. He did exactly what he said he would. Then 3 years ago my husband got hurt at work and we never thought twice on who to call. By this time Mike had taken on other partners in the firm. Keith, who handled the workers comp case and Lee who took care of the SSI. I don’t know what others are talking about it taking so much time or so much hastle~~~both ended up settling much sooner than we ever expected. The entire firm works together, from the attorneys to the entire staff. I really think that is part of what makes this law firm the best ever.
– DEBBIE N.
Best man around and he’s not afraid to take anyone or problem on and he is Wonderful with children he was great with my daughter.
– ANTHONY
Thank you for everything you have done to help our boys. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
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John and I want to thank you for all you have done for us. We know all of you put a lot of time and work in on our case and for that we are very thankful. You have the nicest friendliest people working there. Mara has been so nice to us. We especially want to thank Doug. We spent many hours talking with him and found him to be very personable.
– MIKE
The Pisanchyn Law Firm is in touch with local affairs and contacted us to say, “I heard about your situation. I AM YOUR attorney.” With aggressive, honorable, and knowledgeable representation, they have also met our pain with consolation… I will never forget the day my attorney called. Trust is the new game in the legal community, the Pisanchyn Law Firm wrote the book on accountability and Justice….CALL THEM.
– ROSITA
This was a long process however I know some take a lot longer so thank you for that! I’m thrilled to get my life back. Thank you all for encouraging me when I needed it and your patience with my phone calls! Bravo for the great job you have done.
– DOREEN
I love this law firm, they helped me get my social security when no one else could, thank you!
– MARILYN
I love this law firm, they helped me get my social security when no one else could, thank you!
– MARILYN
Your entire firm, especially Attorney Bradley Moyer and Attorney Douglas Yazinski, have done an admirable job with my case and I am indebted to you for your work, kindness and your patience with me. Thank you all so much.
– ROSE
Thank you so much for all you’ve done to help us through this difficult time. It’s been very much appreciated.
It is heartwarming to know that there are still good and honest people around. Thank you very much!
I cannot thank Doug enough for all of his help with my case.
– KENNETH
I want to thank you for all you’ve done for me. You are greatly appreciated. If I ever need a lawyer or know someone else who does I will pass along your name. Thanks again!
– KATHRYN
They helped me tremendously when I was going through Worker’s Compensation and a Settlement. There was no way I could have gone through it myself. Everyone was patient and professional with me and believe, I’m sure that was not easy. Everything was completely settled almost 13 months ago and I’m back on my feet and working once again. I absolutely recommend Pisanchyn Law Firm to anyone that needs help with a work injury or anything work related.
– BOB
People like you make it easy to be thankful. Thanks again!
– MARK
I would just like to thank everyone that helped settle my Workers’ Comp case, you were all so helpful. It meant a lot to me and helped me get my life back on track.
I can’t tell you how happy I am of the results from your office. I got wonderful, professional and extremely fast service for the situations I had. I will be using your office again if need be and telling everyone I know how hard it is to get results without your help.
– LUANN
Michael Pisanchyn
I am a hardworking, diligent, well-motivated person with a mission to complete and a promise to fulfill. I pledge to you should you honor me with yours or a loved one’s case, I will do everything in my power to make sure that those interests are completely satisfied. Further, I will represent you skillfully, compassionately and most of all aggressively.
Bradley D. Moyer
No one likes a bully. Yet, after a traumatic event in your life, that is exactly what the insurance company can seem like. Every day I fight zealously for my clients to get them the compensation they are entitled to, counsel them during a difficult period in their life, and protect my clients from those same bullies.
Douglas Yazinski
All attorneys can make promises, what separates our firm from the rest is the fact that we never stop working until you are completely satisfied and made whole again after a traumatic injury that was caused by someone else. Once I begin working on your case, the matter becomes personal to me. I always say, ‘I lose sleep so you don’t have to.
Steven Serra
Attorney Serra is an associate at the Pisanchyn Law Firm. He attended The Pennsylvania State University for his undergraduate studies where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences while majoring in Crime, Law, and Justice with a Political Science minor. While at The Pennsylvania State University, Attorney Serra maintained a job where he witnessed several co-workers suffer work related injuries and saw firsthand how these injuries affected their lives.
CATASTROPHIC INJURIES
A catastrophic injury is a severe injury to the spine, spinal cord, or brain, and may also include skull or spinal fractures, loss of limb, hearing or sight and fatalities.
CAR ACCIDENTS
After being involved in an accident, having experienced accident attorneys on your side is imperative. The car accident attorneys at the Pisanchyn Law Firm can help victims pursue the compensation they need to recover from their injuries and move forward with their lives.
TRACTOR TRAILER ACCIDENTS
If you or someone you love was recently injured in a tractor trailer accident, contacting an attorney can help you recover compensation for the expenses you are burdened with.
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS
Many people assume that motorcycle accidents are the fault of the cyclist because of this bias against them. This cannot be farther from the truth.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ACCIDENTS
When a commercial vehicles cause severe accidents and injuries you or your loved one could receive compensation for your injuries.
WRONGFUL DEATH
When a commercial vehicles cause severe accidents and injuries you or your loved one could receive compensation for your injuries.
MEDICAL MALPRACTICE
It’s crucial that you speak to the Pisanchyn Law Firm’s medical malpractice attorneys immediately after you’ve been hurt. Many people don’t even know they have a potential medical malpractice claim, and thus lose the opportunity to pursue justice for their injuries.
BIRTH INJURIES
If your child is the victim of a health care provider who failed to exercise the required standard of care during his or her birth you don’t need just any Pennsylvania Birth Injury lawyer; you need a strong supportive individual who will fight aggressively and provide a voice for the innocent child that can’t.
PRODUCT LIABILITY
According to The U.S. Consumer Safety Commission, about 200-300 products are recalled each year, despite companies having an obligation to design and manufacture safe products. A defective product can be dangerous and put you at risk of a significant, or even catastrophic, injury.
SOCIAL SECURITY
If you have been denied social security benefits or believe you’re entitled to benefits, contact our Pennsylvania SSI/SSD attorneys immediately so that we can discuss your case in detail.
PREMISE LIABILITY
Premises liability cases aren’t as widely discussed as accidents but they can still cause serious, sometimes catastrophic, injuries that resonate for years.
WORKERS' COMPENSATION
Workers Compensation is a complex area of the law and having expert workers’ compensation legal help is the only way to guarantee you will be receiving any and all benefits owed to you.
Need Help With a Pennsylvania Disability Claim?
Tell us where your claim stands. We can review your application or denial, medical evidence, work history, and appeal options.