Costa Mesa Social Security Disability Lawyer

Costa Mesa Social Security Disability Attorney

Living with a disability can be incredibly difficult, and finding gainful employment that is willing to accommodate needs can be nearly impossible. Disabled adults need to be able to rely on government programs to help them survive. Navigating California’s Social Security system can quickly become exhausting without the proper help. A knowledgeable Costa Mesa Social Security disability lawyer can guide you through the bureaucratic process.

Choose a Lawyer in California That Will Advocate for Your Rights

Canlas Law Group is passionate about protecting the legal rights of California residents. We offer free consultations to those living in Costa Mesa and the surrounding cities in the state. When you come into our office in Cerritos, you’ll be able to explain your situation in full detail.

We value validating our clients’ lived experiences and giving them accessible legal knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their case.

Filing for Social Security Disability

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that in 2022, there were 7,664,913 adults in California living with a disability. Of these, 3,394,985 adults lived with a mobility disability, and 3,442,747 adults lived with a cognitive disability. In 2021, 61% of California’s population was employed, but only 40.7% of California’s disabled adult population was employed.

If you have a disability and are struggling to maintain employment, you can file a Social Security application. There is no shame in needing help, and you shouldn’t have to damage your mental and physical health to fit into societal work standards.

The Social Security Administration oversees Social Security. They provide financial benefits for specific programs, such as Disability, Survivor, Retirement, and those who are low-income with limited resources. This program is paid for by employer and employee taxes in the United States.

If you are disabled and it will affect your work for a year or longer, and you have enough work history, you may be eligible for Medicare or monthly payments.

Most often, applicants need to have worked for at least five of the last ten years before applying. However, this rule doesn’t necessarily apply to those who are under 24 years old. Applicants can apply online.

Evidence to Gather for Your Social Security Disability Application

Before applying for Social Security Disability, applicants will need to gather various documentation and evidence for their application. This includes:

• Your date and place of birth
• The name of your current or prior spouse
• The names and dates of birth of any children
• Proof of military service, if applicable
• Details of your employer or self-employment information for the current year and the previous two years
• Direct deposit information
• Information about your doctors, healthcare professionals, hospitals, and clinics
• Names and dates of examinations or treatments
• Names of medications you take
• Names and dates of medical tests you’ve taken
• The date your medical condition began to affect your ability to work
• Types of job duties you performed on the longest job you’ve held
• Types of jobs you’ve held before you became unable to work due to your disability
• Information about your medical records, such as workers’ compensation or rehabilitation services
• The highest grade in school you’ve completed, including trade or vocational schooling

Once your application is submitted, you’ll enter a waiting period while the application is reviewed for approval or denial. Residents of Costa Mesa typically contact the Fountain Valley Social Security Office for updates or information about their application, located at 17075 Newhope Street in Fountain Valley.

Appealing a Social Security Disability Application Denial

The Social Security program doesn’t make it easy for applicants. Most applications are rejected the first time, and the appeals process can be lengthy, especially if you don’t fully understand your rights. It’s important to hire a Social Security disability lawyer to represent your case.

If your application is denied, there are four stages of appeals you can go through. This includes:

1. Requesting reconsideration for the initial denial
2. Requesting a hearing with a judge if the reconsideration request results in a second denial
3. Requesting a review with the Appeals Council if the hearing results in a third denial
4. Filing a federal district court action if the review with the Appeals Council results in a fourth denial

FAQs About Costa Mesa, CA Social Security Disability Law

How Can an Attorney Help Me With My Social Security Case?

An attorney can help you with your Social Security case in many ways. They can access your case and help determine whether you’ll qualify for SSDI. They’ll then help you gather the necessary paperwork related to your case and make sure everything is submitted properly and within proper deadlines. They can then represent you during all stages of your case, as they understand your rights as a California resident.

How Soon Can I Get Social Security Disability Payments After Applying?

After applying for Social Security Disability, applicants have to wait at least five months to start receiving payments. This waiting period begins the first full month after the date that your application is approved. However, there is no waiting period for individuals living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It’s important to apply for SSDI soon after becoming disabled.

What Is the Difference Between Social Security Disability Insurance and Social Security Income?

Social Security Disability Insurance and Social Security Income are two different programs that are often confused with one another. SSDI is for disabled individuals who have worked the required amount of time to be eligible. SSI is for disabled individuals or those over 65 who don’t make enough to survive. SSI doesn’t require a work history, but it has more restrictions regarding income and how much money you can have at once.

What Is Substantial Gainful Activity?

“Substantial gainful activity” is a term used during the Social Security Disability process. If a disabled person can make above a certain amount of money per month, they cannot be accepted for Social Security. In 2026, this limit is $1,690 per month, or $2,830 if you’re blind. Different rules are used for those who are self-employed.

Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer From Canlas Law Group

Contact Canlas Law Group today to learn how our skilled attorneys can assist you in your unique case. Our firm believes in making competent legal services accessible to those who need them most. We provide free consultations to new clients living in Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and throughout Southern California.