When a physical or mental condition makes it difficult or impossible to work, everyday tasks become harder to manage. Many Utah residents find themselves without a stable income, struggling to keep up with expenses, and unsure of their available options. This type of disruption affects more than just finances; it also impacts personal relationships. It creates uncertainty for families and limits access to necessary care and support.
Are you suffering from an injury or medical condition that prevents you from living a healthy, productive life? You’re not alone. Millions of people are incapable of making a living due to a disabling physical or mental impairment. If you’re in this situation, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits may be the right option for you.
However, the rules and regulations surrounding the Social Security system are complex, and people often underestimate the overwhelming amount of paperwork involved. That’s where a knowledgeable Utah Social Security Disability lawyer comes in.
At Alta Legal, we can help you navigate the tricky road to obtaining disability benefits. We can take this enormous burden off your shoulders. All you have to do is call us!
Our team has over 40 years of combined experience working with clients throughout the state of Utah. We are familiar with the Social Security Administration’s review process and understand the documentation that strengthens an application. With offices in Provo, Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Spanish Fork, we are accessible and responsive to your needs. Whether this is your first application or you’ve already received a denial, we can step in and guide you forward with clarity and care.
For many Utah residents who are unable to work due to a serious medical condition, Social Security Disability benefits provide necessary financial support. These benefits help cover basic needs when steady income is no longer possible. Applicants may qualify under one of two federal programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
SSDI supports individuals who have a work history and have paid into the Social Security system. Eligibility depends on work credits and whether your condition meets the federal definition of disability. SSI, by contrast, is based on financial need. It is available to those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.
Our disability attorney will help you determine which program is best suited to your situation. Once eligibility is confirmed, we prepare an application that presents medical details, work limitations, and other relevant facts in a clear and persuasive format.
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, a medical condition must meet specific criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The condition must prevent you from working full-time and is expected to last for at least 12 months or lead to death. While the SSA provides a list of recognized impairments, other diagnoses may also qualify if they result in similar limitations. Below are some of the most common types of conditions that may be approved:
Each case is different. Our disability lawyer develops a personalized strategy tailored to your specific diagnosis. We work with your doctors to present complete medical records and ensure the SSA fully understands how your condition limits your ability to work.
Most first-time claims are denied. This often happens not because the applicant is ineligible, but due to technical errors, incomplete documentation, or insufficient medical evidence.
Some denials occur because the SSA believes the condition may improve or that the applicant can still work in some capacity. Others happen because the SSA does not see ongoing treatment or finds inconsistencies in the paperwork.
We help our clients avoid these problems by preparing their applications carefully from the outset. Our review process includes collecting medical records, employment history, and detailed support from your doctors.
Filing a disability claim requires detailed preparation. It’s not just about filling out forms. It’s about telling your story in a way that fits the SSA’s strict requirements.
We begin by learning about your condition, work history, and the effect your health has on your daily life. From there, we assemble a comprehensive claim that includes all required records and addresses the criteria the SSA uses to evaluate disability.
Throughout the process, we manage all communication with the agency. If the SSA requests more information or schedules a consultative exam, we help prepare you and respond on your behalf.
If your initial application is denied, you have the right to appeal. The process includes several stages: reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, review by the Appeals Council, and a final option to file in federal court.
Our social security lawyer guides you through each step. We review the SSA’s decision, identify any weaknesses, and submit additional evidence to strengthen your claim. Our team ensures that every appeal is handled promptly and accurately.
If a hearing is scheduled, we prepare you thoroughly and represent you during the process. Our goal is to present your situation clearly and make sure the judge fully understands your case.
Applying for disability benefits in Utah involves working with local SSA offices and complying with federal guidelines. Different offices may have different schedules or preferences for reviewing materials.
With locations in Provo, Ogden, Salt Lake City, and Spanish Fork, we understand how local examiners operate. This allows us to avoid common delays and keep your claim moving forward. We also represent clients in Phoenix, Arizona, and tailor our services to match each office’s approach.
Having an experienced legal team that is familiar with the regional process can save you time, reduce confusion, and increase your chances of success.
Yes, but many people who apply without legal help are denied. We help ensure that paperwork is complete, evidence is strong, and deadlines are met, reducing your risk of rejection.
Initial decisions usually take three to six months. If your claim is denied and goes to appeal, the process may take longer. We help you stay on track at every stage.
Yes, in some instances. If you meet the requirements for SSDI but also have very low income and resources, you may qualify for both. We help assess this during our review.
Social Security Disability benefits are federal, so your eligibility remains in place. We help you manage any updates if your case is transferred to a different local SSA office.
Not always. Some claims are approved without a hearing. But if your case goes before a judge, we’ll prepare you and speak on your behalf during the hearing.
Severe medical conditions can disrupt every part of life, from employment to basic financial stability. When you are unable to work, applying for benefits may be your only option. However, the process can quickly become frustrating and confusing.
At Alta Legal, we take that pressure off your plate. We understand what’s required, and we know how to manage the legal side of the application while you focus on your health. Our team has over 40 years of combined experience helping individuals and families across Utah.
To get started, visit our contact page to schedule a consultation. You can also review our practice areas or return to our home page to learn more about our services throughout the state.