Social Security Disability Lawyers

We are a law firm whose primary practice is helping you obtain Social Security disability benefits in Puerto Rico, the Continental United States and the US Virgin Islands. We are committed to getting you the best results, which is why we don't charge a cent until you receive your disability benefits. Contact us for a free consultation to help you. We can assist you in English or Spanish.

What are Social Security disability benefits?

The Social Security Administration has the Social Security Disability program. This program pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you suffer from a physical or mental illness that prevents you from obtaining or maintaining employment.

Social Security disability benefits can be applied for at any age, as long as the applicant has the necessary credits and has medical conditions that limit his or her ability to work. These medical conditions must be documented by your doctors.

Our services

We can help you from start to finish in the process of applying for Social Security Disability, from a complete, no-obligation initial orientation, opening your case, developing your claim, representing you in all administrative stages, to the final benefits decision. Even after your benefits are approved, you may need help with some forms and paperwork. We are here to assist you at no additional cost even after the case is approved.

Consultation

You don't have to navigate through the paperwork and technicalities of the system alone. The first step is to get a thorough consultation with us. We will explain how the process works from start to finish. We will do an interview to obtain all possible information about your case. It is important to evaluate it before starting and determine the strengths and weaknesses of the case. Please know that all information and documentation you provide to us will remain strictly confidential and will be used only for purposes of solidifying your case with the Social Security Administration.

Application and claim process

If you meet the requirements to make a claim, we will complete all the paperwork for you, process all the medical evidence in a timely manner, and follow up on your case. The Social Security Administration will surely request more information, questionnaires, studies and other medical evidence in the process. We will make sure everything is submitted properly and on time. In the process we will prepare you for when the time comes to represent you in the administrative hearing before a judge who will make a determination on your benefits.

Appeal

If your application for disability benefits is denied or you have had a case denied before, it is not the end. You have options to request an appeal or reconsideration from the Social Security Administration. We will take care of filling out all the relevant forms for you and presenting any additional evidence that is required. We have extensive experience in these situations and our priority is for you to get your Social Security disability benefits approved. Get informed with us without obligation so you know your options.

Disabling conditions for Social Security

The Social Security Administration makes decisions about the medical conditions that are considered disabling, meaning those that limit your ability to perform work-related tasks and that have lasted or are expected to last at least 12 months. Each one has its definition and requirements. Find more information about them in our List of Conditions and articles in this website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for Social Security disability?

Social Security disability benefits can be applied for at any age, as long as the applicant has the necessary credits and has medical conditions that limit physical or mental functioning for work. These medical conditions must be documented by your doctors.

What is disability for the Social Security Administration?

It is a condition that limits your ability to perform work-related tasks and that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration has its own medical listings that specifically define medical conditions and the requirements under these conditions. Cardiological, neurological, musculoskeletal, psychological, catastrophic conditions, among others, are part of the list of conditions eligible to request Social Security disability benefits.

Am I approved for benefits if the Social Security determined disability?

Not necessarily. In effect, the Social Security Administration can determine that you have a degree of disability and also deny benefits. That is why it is essential that you seek guidance in advance with an experienced attorney in these cases. We can help you.

Why do I need a lawyer to obtain my disability benefits?

The process of applying for Social Security disability benefits can be complicated. The ideal is to get well informed and have a legal representative to complete each stage of the procedure with the attention it deserves. The vast majority of cases go through several stages ending at the local level in an administrative hearing before an administrative judge. The most important thing you need is a robust medical record and to be well represented.

Does the Agency close the case once benefits have been achieved?

No. The Social Security Administration reserves the right to review the case at any time and may suspend benefits following a review. Our office continues to assist you in any routine procedure at no additional cost even after your case has been approved.

Are there alternatives to continue fighting if the case is denied?

Yes. In the vast majority of cases there are multiple alternatives after a denial by the administrative judge. Alternatives include appealing the decision to the Appeals Council or filing again. We are here to help you fight for your rights.

About us

The law firm Fuentes & Fuentes was founded in 1977 and is made up of Atty. Emilio Fuentes Gerena and his son, Atty. José Emilio Fuentes Del Rosario. For more than 40 years we have provided legal assistance in the areas of notary, private disability or Erisa Law, divorces by notarial act, inheritances and wills, and deeds of sale, among others.

Currently, our primary practice is helping our clients successfully obtain their Social Security disability benefits. Our experience and service have made us the support network par excellence in Puerto Rico, the United States and the US Virgin Islands when it comes to requesting these benefits.

Why choose us

• Free, no-obligation legal consultation.
• We only charge fees when your benefits are approved.
• Over 40 years of experience.
• Personalized and confidential attention.
• Processing of all your documentation on time.
• We can assist you in Spanish or English.

If you have a medical condition that prevents you from working and you have been paying into Social Security, you may be eligible for disability benefits.