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Step 3: Request for Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) The next step is to request a hearing before a Judge. Again, this hearing request can be made online, in person, or by mail. If you are already a ManleyReynolds client or are contacting us for the first time, we will file this request for you. The hearing is the only chance you get to talk to someone about your medical condition, your ability to do daily activities, and your ability to work. Every step before this one has been made on paperwork only. By this point, many medical records have been gathered by DDS. Hopefully, the record is complete up to this point. From the denial of the recon to the end, it is up to the client to obtain and turn in medical information. No one from the Administration will be gathering further records on your behalf. This means as the month's tick by before the hearing; you will need to get and send in the medical records for each doctor or hospital you see after the denial of the recon. When you are our client, we ensure these things are provided to SSA on your behalf. You will be scheduled for a hearing and must be present on that date and time to testify. Hearings are held in person, on TEAMS, or on the phone. No matter the type of hearing, all hearings are the same. This is the claimant’s chance to talk to a person and help SSA decide that you are, in fact, disabled and cannot work in the job market. The Judge will ask you several questions that you are expected to answer honestly and truthfully. If you have hired us, we will talk to you before the hearing so that you know everything that will happen at your hearing. We will also be at the hearing with you and ask you questions at the hearing. The ALJ and our questions are designed to explain how your medical situation prevents you from working full-time in the job market. Our attorneys also prepare and submit to the judge before your hearing a detailed brief on why you are disabled, what medical records back up your position, and if you meet or equal any listings. After the hearing, the judge will make a written decision and send it to you via mail. Claimants are rarely told at a hearing that they will be getting benefits or that the ALJ is writing a fully favorable decision. The Judge can decide you are disabled, you are disabled but from a different date then you said or that you are not disabled. The letter will say fully favorable, partially favorable, or unfavorable. If the ALJ finds you are disabled, you will then receive letters in the mail stating what your monthly benefit will be and what, if any, back pay you will receive. If the ALJ finds you are not disabled, you can still appeal that decision. Claimants who go to a hearing without an attorney are approved about 35% of the time. Link to Step 3 Approval Return to Our Approach Page Link to Appeals Call 833-438-7734 Email attorney@getssdi.org Follow

01 My doctor says I am disabled, but SSA keeps denying me?!? Whether you can or cannot work is an issue reserved to the Commissioner. “A statement on an issue reserved to the Commissioner is a statement made by a medical source or a nonmedical source who is not part of the adjudicative team that would direct our determination or decision that the claimant is or is not disabled or blind within the meaning of the Social Security Act. We are responsible for making the determination or decision about whether a claimant is disabled or blind.” Your doctor is not part of the adjudicative team at SSA and, therefore, cannot make a determination as to the ability of a person to work. READ MORE AT SSA.GOV 02 What statements are considered to be Statements On Issues Reserved To The Commissioner? These examples do not include every possibility, consider the following statements to be on issues reserved to the Commissioner. A statement indicating whether: the claimant is disabled, blind, able to work, or able to perform regular or continuing work, the claimant has a severe impairment, the claimant’s impairment(s) meets the duration requirement, the claimant’s impairment(s) meets or medically equals any listing in the Listing of Impairments (Listings), the claimant has a specific residual functional capacity (RFC) using our programmatic terms about the functional exertional levels in DI 24510.006 Assessing Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) in Initial Claims (SSR 96-8p), the claimant’s RFC prevents him or her from doing past relevant work, the claimant meets the requirements of a medical-vocational rule in DI 25025.035 Tables No. 1, 2, 3 and Rule 204.00, the claimant’s disability continues or ends when we conduct a continuing disability review (CDR), a claimant’s drug or alcohol addiction is material to his or her disability, a claimant failed to follow prescribed treatment, or in a Title XVI child’s case, an impairment functionally equals the listings. 03 So Now What? Is there even a reason for me to go to the doctor? READ MORE AT SSA.GOV Your doctor is really important because they help take care of your health and provide information about your condition. However, when it comes to the official decision about whether your health problem means you can't work, your doctor's opinion is just one piece of the puzzle. The SSA, not your doctor, makes the final decision regarding disability. Even though your doctor can't make the final call on these things, what they say about your health is still very important. It helps the SSA understand your situation better. Back to FAQ Page

What is a medically determinable physical or mental impairment? According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), a medically determinable physical or mental impairment must result from anatomical, physiological, or psychological abnormalities that can be shown by medically acceptable clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques. The impairment must be established by objective medical evidence (signs, laboratory findings, or both) from an acceptable medical source, not on an individual’s statement of symptoms. Link to SSA Guidelines Medical Evidence In seeking Social Security Disability benefits, it's crucial to understand how the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates your application. The SSA requires clear, objective medical evidence to establish the presence of a disability. This means that the disability must be supported by physical, mental, or psychological abnormalities that can be identified through clinical evaluations and laboratory tests conducted by recognized medical professionals. Simply put, the existence of a disability must be verifiable through medical data, not just personal accounts of discomfort or pain. For your application to be considered, it's essential to have up-to-date medical records documenting your condition and the ongoing treatment you're receiving. The Disability Determination Services (DDS) will review these records meticulously, looking at treatment notes, imaging results, prescribed medications, and any physical therapy you may be undergoing. They're assessing the nature of your impairments and their longevity and potential to persist for at least 12 months or lead to mortality. A common hurdle many applicants face is the insufficiency of their medical documentation. If the medical records are sparse or fail to capture the full extent of the impairments, DDS may not find enough evidence to substantiate the claimed disability. It's important to remember that DDS relies solely on the written documentation in your medical records. They do not engage in direct discussions with you, your healthcare providers, or your personal network to gather additional insights. Therefore, ensuring that your medical records are comprehensive and accurately reflect the severity of your condition is paramount. If you're concerned that your doctor might not be documenting your condition thoroughly in your medical records or wondering whether a doctor's note stating your inability to work is sufficient for your claim, it's important to delve deeper into these issues. A detailed doctor's note can be supportive, but it must be part of a broader set of medical evidence that paints a full picture of your impairments and their impact on your daily functioning. Navigating the intricacies of Social Security Disability claims can be challenging, but understanding the importance of robust, detailed medical documentation is critical in advocating for your rights and securing the benefits you need. Back to FAQ Page

Children and Disability For children to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, they must meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) strict definition of disability. This requires a child to have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment (or combination of impairments) that results in "marked and severe functional limitations." The impairment must also have lasted, or be expected to last, for at least one year or result in death When evaluating a child's disability claim, the SSA considers their age, the severity of their limitations, and how their condition impacts their ability to function in age-appropriate activities compared to other children. Marked and Severe Functional Limitations Child Benefits Marked and Severe Functional Limitations refer to a level of impairment that significantly interferes with a child's ability to perform age-appropriate activities compared to other children without disabilities. Marked Limitations: A marked limitation is more severe than a moderate limitation and indicates serious difficulty in a particular domain. Severe Limitations: A severe limitation is one that very seriously interferes with a child's ability to function in a certain area. Determining Child SSI Claims How the SSA determines this: Functional Domains: The SSA evaluates a child's limitations across six domains: Acquiring and using information Attending and completing tasks Interacting and relating with others Moving about and manipulating objects Caring for yourself Health and physical well-being Comparison to Other Children: The child's limitations are assessed relative to what would be expected for their age group. Not Just Diagnosis: A diagnosis alone does not guarantee benefits. The focus is on how the medical condition impacts daily functioning. Back to FAQ Page

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Testimonials Kim C. Vicki C was so kind, down to earth, and compassionate about how serious my health concerns really are. Even though she followed me through to the end with approval, she still inspired me to reach out to her in the future for things I may not understand. Really, top notch job in assisting me with my ssdi case. So thankful Anonymous Vicki was able to get us through the disability process for my wife after being denied multiple times attempting to file on our own. Sadly the SS system is broken and unnecessarily challenging, but with Vicki helping to explain things more and fight for us, we were able to worry and stress a little less and focus more on what we needed to. Highly Recommended if having to file. Mary V. Vicki Corr is the best, she helped my boyfriend when they denied his SSI a couple years ago and this year when SSI suspended his benefits, if it wasn't for her and all her help we don't know what we would have done. She is hands down the best. No matter what I was always able to reach her either by email or by calling the office and the lady who picks up the phone when you call the office is the sweetest and kindest person. Thank you for all the help and for being in our corner. 100% recommend! Give them a call you will not regret it. Marilyn B. Very professional and genuinely cares about the persons issue. Timely reaction to everything. Great experience James S. Vicki Corr has been amazing to work with. She explained all of the steps in detail to me as we went through this process. She is also an incredibly patient and kind person, and helped to make the whole endeavor less scary and overwhelming for me. She has stuck by my side throughout the entire years-long process and beyond, and always reminded me that I could contact her whenever and for whatever reason. She is very competent and I would suggest her to anyone who needs help in regards to disability. Melvindale From the moment I spoke to my representative Vicki, I felt confident she was going to do her very best to assist me. I was always informed with any questions I needed answered. I'm so thankful for their assistance and happy they were and will be here for me. Highly recommend to anyone needing an ssi advocate. Adrianna D. When I needed help I didn't know anything about the processes or how to do anything about it and I got help from here. The kind of help that is respectful and understanding and considerate even when busy. The respect I gave has always been returned equally. There has never been a call or email that wasn't returned or any questions I asked left unanswered. Meghan F. Our lawyer Vicki, went above & beyond providing excellent communication and direction throughout our disability endeavors. What would’ve been an additionally overwhelming part of the process, she made easier to handle. Her kindness, and attention to detail continues to impress me. Highly recommended! Like Jerry H. My attorney Vicki Corr was outstanding, very helpful. Very knowledgeable. Amazing if I could give her 10 stars I would.. Onika F. They were polite, professional and committed and I have to say the best. Not only for me but my brother

The ManleyReynolds Approach At ManleyReynolds, PLLC, we approach every case with a focus on achieving the best possible outcome for our clients. Our team of experienced lawyers is dedicated to working tirelessly to get you the benefits you deserve. We understand the challenges facing individuals seeking Social Security disability benefits and are here to help guide you through the process. We pride ourselves on our personable and helpful approach and are always available to answer any questions you may have. Let us put our experience to work for you and help you navigate the complex world of Social Security disability law. Can I afford an attorney? Read More No out-of-pocket fees SSA approves and pays all fees to the lawyer The fee comes from the back benefits, never from future benefits. Learn Even More SSDI SSI Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD I ) SSD is for people who have a sufficient work history. To qualify for SSD, a person must have the required work credits. Generally, this means working full-time for at least five of the ten years before the illness or injury occurred. You earn work credits for each quarter you work, up to four credits a year. The rest of the requirements are identical for SSD and SSI claims. You must have an illness or injury that is medically determinable that prevents you from working full time that has or will last for at least 12 months or will end in death. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) SSI is for anyone who, for any reason, does not have a work history. This includes children who have a medically determinable impairment that has or will last for at least 12 months or end in death. SSI is a needs-based program. You most likely will not qualify for this benefit if you have too many assets, too much money in the bank, retirement accounts, or other property or income. Similarly, if you are disabled and do not have a work history, but your spouse is working, you most likely will not qualify for these benefits. Household income is used to calculate SSI. SSI claims have a cap that is determined each year. The Social Security Administration does reduce the monthly amount for various reasons. This does include and is not limited to the following: assistance from others, living with others, receiving income from a part-time job, and for a variety of other reasons as well. 3 Steps to Benefits 01. Step 1: Application The first step in your journey to receiving your benefits is to start an application. There are several ways to do this: 1. You can call us at (833)-GET-SSDI, and we will apply for you. 2. You can go online and fill out the electronic forms at ssa.gov. 3. You can call or go to your local field office. Read All 02. Step 2: Request for Reconsideration The second step is to file a Request for Reconsideration. This must be done within 60 days of the date on the denial letter There are several ways you can file this request: 1. You can call our office at (833)-GET-SSDI, and we will file it for you. 2. You can mail in the forms to request a reconsideration. 3. You can go online and fill out the request. 4. You can go to your local field office to file it. Read All 03. Step 3: Request for Hearing The third step is to file a Request for Hearing. This must be done within 60 days of the date on the denial letter. 1. You can call our office at (833)-GET-SSDI, and we will file it for you. 2. You can mail in the forms to request a hearing before the Judge. 3. You can go online and fill out the request. 4. You can go to your local field office to file it. Read All Request for reconsideratio

5-Step Sequential Evaluation Process for Assessing Disability 01 Is the individual working above SGA level? At the first step, we consider an individual’s work activity, if any. SGA stands for Substantial Gainful Activity and the amount changes each year. For 2009 it is $980 for the non-blind and $1640 for the blind. If an individual is working and his or her earnings average more than the SGA limit a month, then he or she is found not disabled. If an individual is not working or his or her earnings are less than SGA, the adjudicator goes to step two. 02 Is the individual’s physical and/or mental condition severe? At the second step, we consider the medical severity of an individual’s impairment(s). An individual must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment (or a combination of impairments) that is severe and meets the duration requirement. To be severe an impairment or impairments must interfere with basic work-related activities. To meet the duration requirement the impairment(s) must be expected to last twelve months or to result in death If the impairment(s) are not severe or do not meet the duration requirement, the individual is found not disabled. If the impairment(s) are severe and meet the duration requirement, the adjudicator goes to question three. 03 Does the individual’s medical condition meet or equal the severity of a Listing? At the third step, we also consider the medical severity of an individual’s impairment(s). SSA maintains a listing of medical criteria that are considered to be so severe that an individual is found to be disabled if his or her medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) matches them. An individual’s impairment(s) can be found to meet the listed criteria exactly or to be of equal severity. If an individual has an impairment that meets or equals one of the listings and meets the duration requirement, he or she is found to be disabled. If an individual does not have an impairment that meets or equals one of the listings or the duration requirement is not met, the adjudicator goes to Step 4. However, before going from step three to step four, the individual’s residual functional capacity (RFC) is assessed. This RFC assessment is then used at both step four and step five. 04 Can the individual do any of his/her Past Relevant Work? At step 4 a function-by-function comparison of the individual’s RFC and past relevant work (PRW) is completed. If an individual retains the physical and mental capacity to perform any PRW, he/she Is found not disabled. If no PRW can be done, or the individual has no relevant work, the adjudicator goes to step five. 05 Can the individual make an adjustment to any other work? At the fifth and last step, an individual’s RFC and age, education, and work experience are considered to see if he/she can make an adjustment to other work. If an individual can make an adjustment to other work, he or she is found to be not disabled. If an individual can not make an adjustment to other work, he or she is found to be disabled. Back to FAQ Page

Appeals Sometimes a Judge doesn’t agree that you are disabled. When that happens there are ways to appeal the Judge’s decision. Appeal of the ALJ Decision Should you receive an unfavorable decision before the ALJ and are now calling us, we can file for a review of the ALJ’s decision for you. The Appeals Council will either deny the request if it feels the hearing decision was correct or will decide the case itself or return it to the ALJ for further review. Approximately 14% of cases are remanded back to the ALJ for further review. The appeals council approves less than 1% of the cases that their review is requested. Our office has been successful in getting approvals from the Appeals Council. Federal Court Review The federal court is limited in what they can do with an appeal of the ALJ decision and a refusal of the Appeals Council to send the case back to the ALJ. The Federal court cannot decide that the decision of the ALJ was wrong because the facts support a different decision. So long as “the findings of the Commissioner of Social Security as to any fact, if supported by substantial evidence, shall be conclusive, and where a claim has been denied by the Commissioner of Social Security or a decision is rendered under subsection (b) hereof which is adverse to an individual who was a party to the hearing before the Commissioner of Social Security, because of failure of the claimant or such individual to submit proof in conformity with any regulation prescribed under subsection (a) hereof, the court shall review only the question of conformity with such regulations and the validity of such regulations.” If the facts of the case are supported by the record in any way, even if more evidence supports a different conclusion, the court will not return the matter as the ALJ’s decision was based on the evidence in the file. This is a high bar for claimants to reach, and if you are contemplating going this way, it is in your best interest to talk to an attorney before filing. As with all the prior steps, the claim must be filed with the federal district court within 60 days of the denial from the Appeals Council. Back to Our Approach Page

ManleyReynolds, PLLC. Social Security Disability Law Firm Contact Us Today! 18000 W. 9 Mile Rd., Suite 635 Southfield, MI 48075 Text, ZOOM or Call Us: (833)-GET-SSDI (833)-438-7734 Email: attorney@getssdi.org Return to Homepage First Name Last Name Email Phone Number Message Send Thanks for submitting! Upload Files Here Facebook WhatsApp Linkedin ZOOM Return to Homepage

Childhood Domains 1 Acquiring and using information This is your Services Page. It's a great opportunity to provide information about the services you provide. Double click on the text box to start editing your content and make sure to add all the relevant details you want to share with site visitors. 2 Attending and completing tasks This is your Services Page. It's a great opportunity to provide information about the services you provide. Double click on the text box to start editing your content and make sure to add all the relevant details you want to share with site visitors. 3 Interacting and relating with others This is your Services Page. It's a great opportunity to provide information about the services you provide. Double click on the text box to start editing your content and make sure to add all the relevant details you want to share with site visitors. 4 Moving about and manipulating objects This is your Services Page. It's a great opportunity to provide information about the services you provide. Double click on the text box to start editing your content and make sure to add all the relevant details you want to share with site visitors. 5 Caring for yourself This is your Services Page. It's a great opportunity to provide information about the services you provide. Double click on the text box to start editing your content and make sure to add all the relevant details you want to share with site visitors. 6 Health and physical well-being This is your Services Page. It's a great opportunity to provide information about the services you provide. Double click on the text box to start editing your content and make sure to add all the relevant details you want to share with site visitors.

What is Maximum Sustained Work Capability? This term is used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine if you qualify for disability benefits. It means the highest level of work you can consistently manage despite your physical or mental limitations. Think of it as the most demanding work you can realistically handle throughout a typical workday and workweek. How does the SSA measure this? Residual Functional Capacity (RFC): They examine your medical records and doctor's opinions to create an RFC outlining what you can still do (how much you can lift, stand, walk, concentrate, etc.). Comparing to Job Demands: Your RFC is compared to the requirements of Link to SSA Guidelines Link to SSA Guidelines Why is this important for disability benefits? If the SSA finds your impairments prevent you from doing even the easiest types of jobs consistently, you're more likely to be considered disabled and eligible for benefits. If you have milder limitations, the SSA also looks at your age, education, and skills to see if you can adapt to different work. Link to SSA Guidelines Back to FAQ Page