It's difficult for most of us to visualize what it would be like to lose our independence and have to depend on others for help with day-to-day activities. While we only imagine the hardship, others live with it day in and day out, as victims of blindness, loss of hearing or mobility, and other physical and mental disabilities. Fortunately, there are a number of government programs that provide help – whether outright financial assistance or other types of support programs that bring the disabled a step closer to independent living.

The Dallas Duke Firm, PC, explain programs under the Social Security Administration.

Federal disability programs include two administered by the Social Security Administration: Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both require demonstrated proof of a disability that prevents the applicant from working. Determination of a claim is based on medical records, telephone or in-person interviews, consultative medical exams, and other evaluations by medical and social service professionals.

To receive SSDI, an applicant must have worked enough calendar quarters in the ten years prior to the disability (and met earnings' guidelines) to qualify. No such prior earnings are necessary for SSI. Instead, in addition to the disability, the applicant must prove a lack of financial resources.

State programs for the disabled are also available. For instance, programs and services offered by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) include:

• Adult Foster Care: assistance with daily living.
• Community Attendant Services: home care for functionally impaired individuals.
• Community Based Alternatives: Services to support in-home, assisted living, or adult day care stays.
• Family Care Services: Non-skilled at home care.
• Special Services to Persons with Disabilities (SSPD): assistance to help the disabled live as independently as possible.

There are many resources at the city, state, and federal level to help the disabled. All too often, however, the need is urgent, and there is little time to research the available programs and support services. That's when a knowledgeable, experienced disability attorney can help.

The Dallas social security disability attorneys of the Duke Firm understand the disability application and appeals process. For a no-cost consultation, call us 888-314-5720 (toll free,) or complete the online contact form.