Let us help you get the disability benefits you deserve.

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Who is Ann?

Ann has been practicing law since 1978, with a sole emphasis on Social Security claimants since 2005.

About Us

Questions?

Social Security/Disability is very confusing.  We have answered some frequent questions we are asked.

FAQ

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WE CAN HELP

You may think winning social security benefits is easy.

Unfortunately, it’s often a very frustrating process. our firm wants to make the Social Security Disability process as easy as possible for you.

If your family lost its main source of income because of an unexpected disability or illness, collecting Social Security disability (SSD) benefits can be crucial for both you and your loved ones; however, as up to 60% of first-time applicants will be denied, recovering these benefits without the assistance of an attorney can be tricky. We have seen an unfortunate trend in which applicants do not follow through and appeal a denial—giving up any chance of recovering benefits. With the assistance of an experienced Social Security disability attorney, your chances of successfully appealing a denied claim—or recovering benefits with your initial claim—can increase tremendously.

OUR STAFF

We have over 60 years combined experience advocating for claimants with Social Security claims. We are experienced in all levels of assisting claimants and assist them in preparing their initial claims, necessary forms requested by social security administration, acquiring medical records, and preparing them for hearings. We thrive on the teamwork involved in helping claimants receive their benefits. We enjoy helping claimants from the initial claim through each necessary step that follows including federal district court. Our staff has assisted claimants in receiving over $6,000,000 in past due benefits. We take you from the beginning to winning, and if we don’t win your case, there is no fee!

Ann Donovan, PA

Founder

Ann’s passion is to help you get the benefits that you deserve. She has been representing Social Security claimants since 1978, with a sole emphasis on Social Security claimants since 2005. She is involved with several organizations and can practice law in a variety of courts in several states:

  • Sustaining member of National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives (NOSSCR)
  • Member of the National Association of Professional Women’s Who’s Who
  • Licensed in State and Federal Courts
  • Member of the Arkansas Bar Assocaition
  • Represents clients at the administrative, hearing, and appeal council levels in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Missouri.
  • If necessary she will appeal to federal district court.

National Organization of Social Security
Claim Representatives

National Association of Professional Women

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Types of Benefits

You may be entitled to receive Past Due Benefits, Future Benefits and Health Care Benefits.

Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (sometimes called SSDI, DIB, or Social Security Disability)
To qualify for these benefits:

  • You must have been disabled for twelve months or be expected to be disabled for twelve months.
  • You must have worked approximately 5 full years out of the past 10 years.
  • Your disability may be physical, mental/emotional or a combination of these.
  • This is an insurance benefit paid to those who have been paying into the Social Security System.
  • Net worth and most household income will not prevent you from receiving Social Security Disability or affect the amount of your benefits.

Supplemental Security Income
This program is for the very young, elderly, blind, or disabled, even if you have never worked.
There are several qualifications:

  • You must prove that you are disabled, or will be unable to work for at least 12 months.
  • You cannot have more than $2,000 ( if single), or $3,000 ( for married couple) in liquid assets, or own more than one home.
  • If there is household income it can reduce or eliminate the amount of this benefit.
Process

There are three administrative levels (in most states):

  1. The initial application level
  2. The reconsideration level
  3. The Hearing level before an administrative law judge, which we attend with you.

We prefer to begin with the initial application and assist people throughout all levels.

The additional levels are appellate in nature:
An appeal to the Appeals Council (where any Unfavorable Decision by the administrative law judge may be overturned), and an appeal to Federal District Court.

How do the fees work?

There is a fee structure that we operate under which is set by federal statute: That structure allows us a fee if we win your case. When we win your case, we are allowed a fee of 25% of your potential past due benefits, up to a maximum fee of $7,500. If we win your case and we have had to pay out of pocket expenses to obtain medical records, you will reimburse us for those expenses when you start receiving payments.

If you are drawing unemployment compensation and/or workers compensation benefits those will reduce the amount of benefits you could potentially receive. Unemployment compensation could prevent you from receiving any past due benefits but would not prevent you being awarded benefits.

What’s the difference between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you’ve paid. To be eligible, you must have worked a certain number of years. SSI, on the other hand, is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. We can help you determine which program you may be eligible for.

Can I receive disability benefits for a mental health condition?

Yes. Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and others can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits if they are severe enough to prevent you from working. Success in these cases relies on thorough medical documentation from a qualified professional, which we can help you gather and present.

How does the Social Security Administration (SSA) define “disability”?

The SSA has a strict definition. A “disability” is a medical condition that prevents you from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) and is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. It’s not just about having a diagnosis; it’s about proving your condition’s impact on your ability to work.

When is the right time to apply for Social Security Disability benefits?

 You should apply as soon as you and your doctor believe your medical condition will keep you out of work for at least a year. There is a waiting period for benefits, so it’s best to start the process as soon as you are unable to work.

What information do I need to have ready before I apply for disability benefits?

To ensure a smooth application process, you should gather the following:

  • Detailed contact information for all your doctors, therapists, hospitals, and clinics.
  • A complete list of your medications and dosages.
  • Your full work history for the past 15 years, including job titles and duties.
  • Your Social Security number and birth certificate.
  • Information about any other benefits you are receiving, such as workers’ compensation.
Should I hire an attorney before I apply for disability benefits?

While you can apply on your own, having an experienced Social Security Disability attorney from the start can significantly increase your chances of approval. We can ensure your application is filled out correctly, includes all necessary medical evidence, and presents the strongest possible case from the very beginning.

My Social Security Disability application was denied. What should I do next?

Don’t give up. The majority of initial applications are denied. You have a limited time—typically 60 days—to file an appeal. The most critical step you can take is to contact a qualified disability lawyer immediately to guide you through the appeals process, which can include reconsideration and a hearing before a judge.

 

What are the main stages of a disability appeal?

The appeals process has four main levels:

  1. Reconsideration: A review of your file by a new examiner.

  2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): An opportunity to present your case in person. This is where many cases are won.

  3. Appeals Council Review: The Appeals Council can review the ALJ’s decision.

  4. Federal Court Review: A lawsuit filed in federal court.

We represent clients at all levels of the appeals process.

I was denied benefits a second (or third) time. Is it too late to get help?

Absolutely not. Many successful claims are approved at the hearing or Appeals Council stage. If you’ve been denied at any point in the process, it is the perfect time to seek legal representation to strengthen your appeal and fight for the benefits you deserve.