Is it hard to apply for Social Security benefits?
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Is it hard to apply for Social Security benefits?

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Q: Is it hard to apply for Social Security benefits?

A: There are several ways to apply for a Social Security disability claim. The first is to go to the Social Security District Office and file the claim in person. Now applications can also be made online at http://ssa.gov/. Another way is to call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. They will make an appointment for a telephone interview for you. Once the interview is finished they will send necessary forms for you to fill out. All the basic information will have been collected during the phone interview.

Although a claimant may apply on his own, it is important to understand that over 72% of initial applications are denied. The final award rate for disabled-worker applicants has varied over time, averaging nearly 45 percent for claims filed from 2000 through 2009. The percentage of applicants awarded benefits at the initial claims level averaged just 28 percent over the same period and ranged from a high of 37 percent to a low of 26 percent. The percentage of applicants awarded at the reconsideration and hearing levels are averaging 3 percent and 13 percent, respectively. Denied overall disability claims at all stages have averaged nearly 53 percent.

Getting legal help at the outset of the claim could make the difference between winning, or being denied and spending many months or years appealing.

Client Testimonials

What Clients are Saying

Find out how the clients who trusted us feel about our firm.

I will be eternally forever grateful for this Law Firm
I had been in a 5-year battle I had lost everything
when I was referred to this Law Group.

My life was completely changed I felt like I had a voice I felt that I mattered I felt that my disability was causing me not to be seen or heard, they took every word every issue that I had [said] they worked with me to broke things down when I didn't understand and they never made me feel like I was not important. I won my case with a favorable approval they truly go above and beyond this Law Firm makes you feel like a person even when the world disables you out they do not and I will be forever grateful to them because now I can provide for my family and myself again I TRULY THANK Matt Grundy's Law Firm from the bottom of my heart.”

— Tee Kelley

I cannot say enough
good about Matthew Grundy and
ALL of his staff.

I contacted his office October 2020, because I had and still am, fighting breast cancer. I had numerous surgeries, still doing chemo, finished radiation and still fighting the fight. They took care of everything and that was such a blessing because I was too sick and weak to do it myself. I would absolutely recommend them and I am so grateful that a friend referred them to me. They were always polite and punctual returning my calls and emails. Don’t go it alone, let them take care of it, reserve your strength to fight for your health.”

— D.S. Kansas City

Dear Matt

I want to take a moment to say I appreciate all you do for clients (me) throughout the SSD process. You provided me top-shelf representation, case knowledge and follow up. Thank you!”

— A.S. Leawood, KS

A friend referred
me to Matt Grundy.
He was amazing!

I felt the weight lift off my shoulders. He was caring and efficient and took over the whole process. He handled all correspondence and was my voice in my hearing. I was ecstatic when Matt got my disability approved. I wish I had started with Matt before I ever filed.”

— W.T. Kansas City

After being denied trying to file on my own
I was fortunate to have Grundy Disability Group
recommended to me.

A short survey and a visit then they took control of my case. This was the best decision I’ve ever made. Matt answered all my questions without hesitation and gave me confidence about my case. I’ve already recommended them to others and will do so gladly. Thank you Matt and his team!”

— W.S. Kansas City

I had a great experience
working with this office.

They are thorough, and get the job done with the least amount of stress on the client as possible. I would recommend them to anyone I know who needs help navigating their SSDI claim. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”

— W.W. Kansas City

I’m epileptic and you recently
just helped me get disability.

I just wanted to email you guys and say thank you guys so much! I appreciate your hard work and dedication.! you guys have helped me get my income back since I haven’t been able to work. Now I can pay my bills again and get caught up again that is a relief. thank you guys again so much god bless you and all your families.”

— A.D. Kansas City

Thanks again for
your help on all this.

From the first conversation I had with Susan Frank, whose advice set me on a course to lay the groundwork of a successful claim – months before I hired you. I spoke to a couple of other places before I spoke to her and there was no comparison. The difference between my initial contact with Susan VS the others was a personal connection and actual value in the phone call. It was informative, connected and extremely helpful. This built trust and made my decision to choose your organization easy. My ongoing dealings with you only confirmed my choice. Matt is extremely connected with his clients and communicates promptly and thoughtfully.”

— T.C. Kansas City

To the Law Office of Matthew R. Grundy

I, Delisa Cadenhead, would like to extend my appreciation for the dedicated work I received from your firm. Thank you for standing by me and my case. I hope you and your firm have many blessings. Thank you very much!”

— Delisa Cadenhead

Matt, Regina, Nina, and everyone else that helped work on my disability case:

You were ALL an awesome, cohesive, genuine TEAM and I appreciate all your help!”

— Shannon D. Bonner Springs, KS
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You're invited to schedule an appointment for a free consultation to discuss your claim for benefits.
We have shown thousands of disabled persons how to win their Social Security claims, and look forward to helping you with your case.
One of our social security disability lawyers will meet with you in Kansas City, Missouri to get you started on your case.

    Helpful Information

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When do I apply for Social Security disability?

    Our Social Security disability lawyer in charge of your case will work tirelessly to determine what went wrong. Our Social Security attorneys will then refile your claim, making sure everything is in order. Our Social Security lawyers will not stop until you are successful in claiming the benefits you deserve. Read More

    You have to have been disabled, or expect to be disabled, for at least one year to be eligible. So, if you expect to be out of work for one year or more on account of illness or injury, you should file for Social Security disability benefits. Read More

    To apply for Social Security disability benefits, you will need to complete an application for Social Security Benefits and the Disability Report. You can also print the Disability Report, complete it and return it to your local Social Security office. Read More

    Cases are generally handled on a contingency basis. That means the representative receives a fee only if you win your case. Normally the fee is 25% of your back benefits and must be approved by Social Security. Read More

    You do not have to wait until the workers’ compensation ends, and you should not wait that long. Read More

    Read All FAQs