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Gastonia residents seeking Social Security services have access to a range of benefits and support at their local Social Security office. Whether you need to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or require assistance with other services and benefits, knowing where to go and what to expect can make the process smoother.
Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, offers legal assistance to help you secure the disability benefits you deserve. If you have already filed for benefits and received a denial, our Gastonia Social Security Disability lawyer can also help you appeal that decision. Call us today for a free case consultation.
Services Available at the Gastonia Social Security Office
The Gastonia Social Security office provides numerous services, including the following:
- You may apply for Social Security benefits, such as retirement, SSDI, and SSI. The staff can explain the requirements and application process for each program.
- You can request a new or replacement Social Security card.
- The office can provide you with your current benefits and an estimate of your future benefits. If necessary, you can review your earning history for accuracy, ensuring you will receive the correct amount in benefits when you apply.
- You can also apply for Medicare. If you are already receiving Medicare, you may make changes to your plan or request new Medicare cards.
- You may update your personal information, such as name and address changes.
Knowing how to manage these services can be challenging, especially when dealing with denied disability claims. Our North Carolina Social Security Disability Lawyers from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, can provide the guidance you need.
Location and Direction for the Gastonia Social Security Office
Social Security does provide some online services. However, it may be necessary to visit the Gastonia Social Security office in person. If that is the case for you, the office is conveniently located for residents. Additionally, if you need to visit, make sure to schedule an appointment to avoid long waits.
The Gastonia Social Security office location is:
609 Cotton Blossom Cir
Gastonia, NC 28054
To reach the office from I-85, exit onto New Hope Rd and head south to Cotton Blossom Circle. If you are coming from SR 321, head east on SR 74, Andrew Jackson Hwy.
Turn right on New Hope Rd and drive to Cotton Blossom Circle. Once on Cotton Blossom Circle, the office will be on the south side of the road.
The office operates during the following hours:
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday Closed
You may walk in and wait to be seen, but to schedule an appointment, you can call ahead.
Preparing for Your Appointment
When visiting the Gastonia Social Security office, ensure you bring the necessary documents, which may include:
- Your Social Security number and card
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Proof of residency, such as utility bills or a lease agreement
- Proof of income or bank statements
- Medical records if applying for SSDI or SSI
Confirm with the office beforehand if additional documents are required for your specific needs.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Arriving early for your appointment can help ensure you have enough time to complete all necessary tasks. Make a checklist of required documents and bring a snack in case of long wait times. If you need further clarification about what to bring or the services provided, call the office in advance.
Understanding the Difference Between SSDI and SSI
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two distinct programs designed to assist individuals with disabilities:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides benefits to those who have accumulated sufficient work credits by paying Social Security taxes during their employment. Eligibility depends on your work history and contributions to the Social Security system.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI), on the other hand, is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to disabled individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history.
Understanding the differences between these programs can help you determine which benefits you might qualify to receive.
Call Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, today for a free case consultation on your Social Security Disability case.
How Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, Can Assist You
The Social Security system can be overwhelming, especially if your disability claim is denied. Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, can provide legal advice and help you through every step of the process. We can:
- Determine your eligibility for either SSDI, SSI, or both benefit programs
- Explain what to expect during the claims process
- Evaluate and prepare your disability claim
- Gathering evidence, such as medical records, to support your application
- Filing and tracking your claim
- Handle appeals if your claim is denied
- Communicate with Social Security officials on your behalf
- Represent you during hearings
How to Appeal a Denial of Social Security Disability Benefits
If the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application, you have the right to appeal. The appeals process involves several steps to ensure your case receives a thorough review.
Reconsideration
Your first option to appeal a denial of benefits is to file a request for reconsideration (form SSA-561) within 60 days of receiving the denial notice. During this stage, a different SSA official will review your case; however, they may still deny your claim.
Administrative Law Judge
If the SSA denies your reconsideration request, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). You will have 60 days to file form HA-501.
This hearing allows you to present new evidence and testimony to support your claim. Again, the ALJ may stand by the denial, which would require us to pursue the next stage of appeal.
Social Security Appeals Council
If the ALJ denies your claim, you will need to file an HA-502 within 60 days for a review by the Social Security Appeals Council. The Appeals Council would review the decision made by the ALJ for any legal or procedural mistakes.
They can accept the ruling by the ALJ, overturn the decision, make changes, or send it back for another hearing in front of the ALJ.
Federal Lawsuit
If the Appeals Council denies your claim, your final option is to file a lawsuit in federal court. You will have 60 days to file this lawsuit.
Throughout this process, a Social Security Disability attorney from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, can review the findings of the appeals and help you correct mistakes and add new evidence. We will guide you through each step and ensure all necessary documentation is properly submitted.
Appealing Your Denial With Evidence
When applying for disability benefits or appealing a denial, the strength of your evidence can significantly impact the outcome. Comprehensive and well-organized documentation will demonstrate the extent of your disability and its impact on your ability to work.
A Social Security Disability lawyer from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, can help you gather and present the necessary evidence to build a compelling case. Below is a list of essential evidence that can support your application and appeal a denial:
- Medical records, such as detailed records from doctors, imaging results, and lab test results
- Mental health records, including psychological evaluations and treatment records
- Physical and mental assessments detailing your ability to perform work-related activities
- List of prescribed medications and their side effects
- Detailed work history with job descriptions, including statements from previous employers
- Personal statements detailing how your disability affects daily activities
- Statements from family members, friends, or coworkers about your condition and its impact on your life
- Evaluations from vocational experts on your ability to work given your limitations
- Documentation of any specialized education or training programs attended
- Completed SSA forms required for the application or appeal process
- Copies of any prior decisions or correspondence from the SSA related to your case
- Evidence of work credits
- Evidence of financial need for SSI claims
Start Your Free Consultation on Your North Carolina Case Today
If you’re seeking Social Security Disability benefits in Gastonia, allow Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, to help. Call today for a free consultation and let our attorneys guide you through the process to secure the benefits you need.
