Are Social Security Disability Rules Different in California Than in Other States?

By Michelle Shvarts
Principal Attorney

If you become disabled and you want to apply for Social Security Disability (SSD), you need to know what the rules are to become eligible for benefits. The requirements for qualifying for disability income are strict, and the process can be complicated so it is important that you hire an experienced Los Angeles Social Security Disability lawyer. Your attorney can explain to you what steps you must take and what you must prove in order to qualify for benefits. Your lawyer will also guide you through the process as you apply for coverage.

Are the Social Security Disability Benefits Rules Different from State to State?

Social Security Disability is a federal program, so you do not need to worry about facing very different requirements for applying depending upon where you live. In California and throughout the United States, the definition of disability is the same and the basic application process is the same. 

However, this does not mean there are no differences in trying to get benefits depending upon where you live. Each individual state has disability claims examiners who process claims and has administrative law judges who preside over hearings that become necessary when appeals occur after benefits claims are denied. Some states have higher denial rates than others, and there are different rates of success for applicants who appeal when their claim is not initially approved. 

You need to make sure you have a local lawyer who can provide you with assistance if you are applying for Social Security Disability in Los Angeles. Contact an experienced attorney today to find out what the rules are for applying and to get help submitting your application or appealing if your initial claim is denied.

About the Author
Ms. Shvarts is the managing attorney for Disability Advocates Group. She opened Disability Advocates Group to assist individuals who became disabled and unable to work to obtain the benefits they need and deserve.  Ms. Shvarts and the rest of the team at Disability Advocates Group are dedicated to assisting individuals obtain Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.