Your South Carolina Social
Security Disability lawyers

McChesney & Ours will do everything we can to help with your Social Security disability claim or appeal in or around the Carolinas. We’re here to help you get the benefits you need for your life, family, and future.

We’ll Do Right by You

Our attorneys are here to guide you through your Social Security disability claim or appeal. Our firm’s mission is to get basic income and medical care for disabled people in the Carolina area - we believe everyone should have access to the funds they need for their family and their future. McChesney & Ours is building on over forty years of success in Social Security law, so reach out today. Let’s figure out your options together.

About us

From Clients Like You

I started my process over 3 years ago. From day 1 everyone at McChesney and Ours were very helpful and on the same page. I appreciate all the work that they put into my case. Mr. Dunning won my case!

Daniel Scruggs

The McChesney & Ours law firm went to bat for me to get my disability started. I had been turned down twice and before I got my letters from the SSA they had already filed an appeal. they were great people to work on my case. They are very professional and knowledgeable. They kept in contact with me throughout the whole process. I would highly recommend them to anyone that needed legal help.

Matt Hill

I have McChesney & Ours as my attorneys for my disability case, they made me feel really comfortable and confident about everything. They reached out to me through out the entire process to keep me informed about what was going on with my case. Mrs. Ours was really good and she did a wonderful job as my lawyer and I won my case it was a bench decision, which made me feel very happy as I had tried before and was denied. Having lawyers who actually cares and works hard for you will make all the difference's. Thanks McChesney & Ours.

Clara Taliaferro

After several years of dealing with an Attorney who seemed not to care whether I won my case or not, I was referred to McChesney & Ours, P.C. What a great experience it was to finally have someone working hard for me. Every phone call was returned, every question was answered and Mr. Mark Dunning won my case. So thank you to every single person that helped me along the way. You guys are the absolute best!

Debbie Owens

I appreciate everything that McChesney and Ours did for me. I spoke with several associates (Lawyer, paralegal, case workers) there over past months and they were always clear and informative and detailed oriented. They called me on phone or emailed me or mailed info to me so I kept informed of process and they always answered any concerns I had. My process is still ongoing but near the end now and I thank them all very much for all their work.

Karen Knon

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Always Know What’s Happening With Your Claim

Whether you're considering applying for benefits or have already faced a denial, the attorneys at McChesney & Ours are here to advise you. We'll make sure you understand what’s going on through each part of the process - with no legal jargon, just clear discussion and direction to help get you your benefits.

Maria and Christina
Maria and Christina

The Basics of Social Security Disability

Let’s take a look at some of the fundamentals of Social Security disability. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are two of the most common programs that the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses to help support disabled citizens.

What is SSDI and How Do I Know If I’m Eligible?

SSDI is designed to give financial assistance to individuals who have a qualifying disability that prevents them from working, officially referred to as substantial gainful activity (SGA). To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must have a work history and a medical condition that meets the SSA's definition of disability. The amount of SSDI benefits received is based on the individual's earnings record and their average lifetime earnings. Here is a quick breakdown of some of the factors:

Medical Eligibility

Your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) and must be expected to last for at least one year or result in death.

Work History

You need a work history that shows you’ve paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. The SSA calculates work credits based on your annual income, and the number of credits required varies depending on your age at the time of disability.

Duration of Disability

Your disability must be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Short-term disabilities that are expected to resolve within a year typically do not qualify for SSDI benefits.

Age Requirement

While there is no minimum age requirement for SSDI benefits, you must have earned a sufficient number of work credits before becoming disabled. It is often more difficult to qualify if you are under 50 – the younger you are, the more severe your impairments may have to be in order to be awarded. Additionally, there are special rules for individuals under the age of 22 who become disabled.

Maria and Christina

SSI and Eligibility

Unlike SSDI, which is based on work history and contributions to the Social Security system, SSI is a needs-based program designed to help aged, blind, and disabled individuals who have limited income and resources.If you want to learn more about your eligibility for SSDI or SSI, contact McChesney & Ours today.

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What We’ll Do for Your Benefits Application

Don’t wait to get skilled legal guidance for your disability claim. Reach out to our team, and let’s start getting your application ready today. Here are some of the ways we can help you get the benefits you deserve.

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Initial Consultation

We’ll discuss your disability claim and assess your eligibility for benefits. During this consultation, we'll review your medical records, work history, and other relevant information to determine the best course of action.

Assistance with Application Completion

Our team will assist you in filling out the necessary paperwork accurately and thoroughly, ensuring that all relevant information is provided to the Social Security Administration (SSA) in a timely manner.

Gathering Supporting Documentation

We'll work with you to gather supporting documentation, such as medical records, treatment notes, and statements from healthcare providers, to strengthen your application. Providing comprehensive evidence of your disability and its impact on your ability to work is essential for a successful benefits application.

Reviewing and Submitting Your Application

Before submitting your application to the SSA, our team will review it carefully to make sure everything is included and that there are no errors or omissions that could delay or jeopardize your claim. We'll then submit your application on your behalf, ensuring that it is processed as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Follow-Up and Communication

After submitting your application, we'll stay in touch with the SSA to monitor its progress and address any questions or concerns that may arise. We'll keep you informed of any updates or requests for additional information and provide guidance and support throughout the application process.

Turned Down? Don’t Worry, We’re Here.

We know it’s frustrating because we’ve seen it happen all the time. About two-thirds of first-time Social Security disability claims are denied. The process can seem like it’s designed to be difficult, but McChesney & Ours is here to help you get the benefits you deserve. Here are some ways we can help you get your claim moving forward:

Case Review and Analysis

We'll carefully review the reasons for your denial and analyze your case to identify any potential weaknesses or areas for improvement.

Gathering Additional Evidence

We'll work with you to gather any additional medical records, treatment notes, or other evidence that may strengthen your claim.

Preparing a Strong Appeal

Our team will prepare a compelling appeal on your behalf, addressing the reasons for the denial and presenting new evidence to support your case.

Representation at Hearings

If your appeal progresses to a hearing before an administrative law judge, our experienced attorneys will represent you at the hearing and advocate for your rights.

Negotiating Settlements

It may be possible to negotiate a settlement with the SSA, our team can explore all available options and work to secure a favorable outcome for you through negotiation or mediation.

Continued Support and Communication

We’ll keep you informed of any developments in your case and answer any questions you may have to ensure that you feel supported and informed throughout the process.

Skilled Legal Support for Your Social Security Disability Claim

We’re all about access. We have the experience, knowledge, and skill to help get you the support and benefits you need, so connect with our team today.

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Social Security Disability Results

“Lance and Sarah were wonderful to work with. They were intelligent, hard-working, and dedicated advocates for me and brought my case to a positive resolution. They will not over-promise you results although at times you may want them to. I think it is better to be told the trust. When I was given optimistic news I knew I could count on it because of Lance speaking so plainly with me throughout.”

Glen F.

“Already I felt so much more confident about my boyfriend’s legal case to have a lawyer who believes in you and wants to win. It is an amazing feeling. It is hope!”

Melanie B. 

“They care deeply about their clients and get the best possible results.”

Mykelanne I.

Learn More About Social Security Disability

Do I Need a South Carolina SSDI Lawyer When Applying for Social Security?

Do I Need a South Carolina SSDI Lawyer When Applying for Social Security?

Are you applying for SSDI in SC? You’re probably wondering whether it’s worth hiring a Social Security Disability lawyer, and what they can actually do for your application or appeal.

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How Long Does it Take to Get Social Security Disability in South Carolina?

How Long Does it Take to Get Social Security Disability in South Carolina?

If you're facing a disability that prevents you from working, SSDI can offer essential financial support. Let’s look at some of the basics together. 

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What to Do If Your SSDI Claim is Denied?

What to Do If Your SSDI Claim is Denied?

You've filed your claim for SSDI benefits in South Carolina, hoping to get the financial support you deserve. But what if your claim gets denied?

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Frequently Asked Questions

We know you have questions if you’re starting a Social Security disability application, or filing an appeal to get the benefits you need. Our team is here to help with some answers and insights.

Read Our FAQs