Shapira, Hutzelman, Berlin,
Ely, Smith & Walsh
305 West 6th Street   -   Erie, PA  16507
(814) 452-6800   -  (888) 773-0596
(814) 456-2227 fax

If you or a family member suffer from an injury or disease that prevents you from working or is expected to prevent you from working for one year or longer, then you may be entitled to Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is a federal agency that administers retirement and disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a disability as the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to an impairment or combination of impairments. To be considered disabled, a person must ordinarily establish that he or she cannot perform his or her past work and also must establish an inability to perform other types of employment. The Social Security system provides benefits for the disabled under two separate but related programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (DIB) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

To get disability benefits from Social Security, you must apply. How much a person receives as a benefit depends on his or her work history, resources, and other available income. We have substantial experience obtaining Social Security benefits on behalf of our disabled clients and their families. Due to our experience, we are able to efficiently guide you through the overwhelming maze of regulation and red tape that characterizes the application process. If you have been denied benefits by the Social Security Administration (SSA) or are simply considering whether you should apply, please contact the lawyers at Shapira, Hutzelman, Berlin, Ely, Smith and Walsh today.

Contact Attorney Stephen H. Hutzelman, Attorney Edwin Smith or Attorney Sue Beck to answer any questions you may have.