For thousands of Americans each year, applying for Social Security Disability benefits becomes a frustrating, confusing, and often disheartening process. Many who are physically or mentally unable to work find themselves buried in paperwork, unsure how to move forward after being denied. But in Natchitoches, one law firm has built its reputation on standing beside those individuals, step by step, appeal by appeal.
“We meet people at one of the most vulnerable times in their lives,” said attorney Eddie Harrington. “They’re hurting, they’re unable to work, and they feel like the system has forgotten them. We are honored to be able to help folks through that.”
SSI vs. SSDI: What You Need to Know
Before tackling the application process, Harrington stresses the importance of understanding the two types of disability benefits offered by the Social Security Administration: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
“SSDI is for individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system over the years. You earn it through your work history,” Harrington explained. “SSI is different. It’s for those with limited income and resources, even if they haven’t built up a strong work history or never paid into Social Security. It’s a safety net for the most financially vulnerable. However, in SSI your assets can affect how much you can receive in benefits.”
While the qualifications differ, both programs require proof that the applicant is unable to work due to a physical or mental impairment that is expected to last at least a year or result in death.
The Process Can Be Long—But You’re Not Alone
The application process typically begins with filing an initial claim with the Social Security Administration. Unfortunately, most first-time applications are denied.
“That first denial catches people off guard,” Harrington said. “They think, ‘I’m obviously sick, I can’t work, why was I denied?’ But the SSA’s process is incredibly strict and technical. You have to meet very specific legal definitions and provide the right evidence. That’s where we come in.”
After an initial denial, applicants must file a Request for Reconsideration. If denied again, which is often the case, the next step is to request a hearing before an administrative law judge. That hearing stage is often where many applicants are finally successful but getting there can take months or even more than a year.
“We’re with our clients every step of the way,” Harrington said. “From the first form to the final hearing, we fight for our clients like they’re family. We prepare the case, gather the medical records, build the arguments, and stand beside them when they need someone the most.”
Why They Do What They Do
For Harrington and his team, this work is personal.
“We’re proud to be part of this community,” he said. “We see the faces behind these files, these are our neighbors, our former teachers, our friends’ parents. We’re humbled to help them because they deserve dignity, support, and justice.”
Harrington adds that he often sees people give up on their claims out of frustration or fear, especially when going up against a slow and complicated system.
“That’s heartbreaking because so many of them are entitled to help, they just need someone in their corner who won’t back down,” he said. “We take that responsibility seriously. When we take a case, we treat our clients like family and fight just as hard as we would for our own.”
A Message of Hope
If you or a loved one is considering applying for Social Security Disability, or has already been denied, The Harrington Law Firm encourages you not to give up.
“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but you don’t have to go through it alone,” Harrington said. “Let us handle the process. You focus on your health and we’ll take care of the rest.”
For a free consultation or more information, contact The Harrington Law Firm. Help is just a phone call away.