Richmond Social Security Disability Lawyer

Richmond residents apply for Social Security Disability benefits through the Social Security Administration. Your case gets reviewed by Virginia’s Disability Determination Services. You must show that a medical condition stops you from working for at least 12 months. The process can be complex, with many claims denied at first. A lawyer can help you build a stronger case and guide you through appeals.

As a Social Security Disability firm serving clients throughout Virginia, Gillette Law Group, PLLC, has helped many people navigate the claims process and understands how these benefits work in real cases.

How Social Security Disability Works in Virginia

The Social Security Administration runs two disability programs. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) requires you to have worked and paid into Social Security in Virginia. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is based on financial need and doesn’t require a work history in Virginia.

Both programs use the same medical standards. You need to prove your condition is severe enough to stop you from working. The disability must last at least one year or be expected to result in death.

When you apply, your case goes to Virginia’s Disability Determination Services, which works with the Social Security Administration to review claims in Virginia. Medical experts look at your records. They check if your condition meets federal guidelines.

The Application and Appeals Process

Virginia DDS makes decisions based on medical and psychological evidence and may also consider your education and work history, Virginia. You can apply online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office.

In fiscal year 2023, Virginia approved about 42% of initial applications. That means most people get denied the first time. This doesn’t mean your case is weak. The system is strict about what qualifies.

If you’re denied, you have 60 days to appeal. The first appeal level is reconsideration. A different examiner reviews your case. About 17% of Virginia claims were approved at reconsideration in 2023.

The next level is a hearing before an administrative law judge. This is where many cases get approved. You can present new evidence. You can testify about your limitations. A judge asks questions and hears from medical experts.

Approval rates vary by hearing office. Some approve more cases than others. The hearing gives you a chance to explain things that paperwork can’t show.

What SSA office handles Richmond VA social security disability claims and appeals?

The process for Social Security Disability claims and appeals involves three different offices in the Richmond, VA area: the local Field Office, the state DDS office for medical decisions, and the Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) for appeals.

1. Local SSA Field Office (Initial Claims & Administration)

The local Social Security Administration (SSA) Field Office handles applications, non-medical requirements (like work history), and initial processing. Richmond is served by two main offices, but the downtown office is often cited for the city proper:

• SSA Field Office: Richmond
  • Address: 1834 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23220
  • National Phone (Toll-Free): 1-800-772-1213
  • Local Phone: The national number (1-800-772-1213) is generally recommended for all local SSA services.
  • Hours: Generally Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Hours are subject to change; call ahead).

2. Disability Determination Services (DDS) (Medical Review)

The Virginia DDS is a state agency that determines medical eligibility for initial claims and the first level of appeal (Reconsideration). The DDS office serving the Richmond area is:

• Virginia DDS Central District Office
  • Address: 9960 Mayland Dr, Suite 200, Richmond, VA 23233-1485
  • Toll-Free Phone (General DDS Line): 1-855-445-3938
  • Toll-Free Phone (Central Regional DDS): 1-800-523-5007
  • Fax: 1-804-527-4523

3. Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) (Appeals/Hearings)

If your claim is denied at the DDS level, the next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), which is handled by the OHO.

• SSA Office of Hearings Operations (OHO): Richmond Hearing Office
  • Address: 1100 E. Main Street, Suite 225, Richmond, VA 23219
  • Toll-Free Phone: 1-877-405-3665
  • Fax: 1-877-871-1880
  • Hours: Generally 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Call to confirm).

Understanding SSDI and SSI Requirements

SSDI has work requirements. You need to have worked recently and long enough to earn credits. Most people need about five years of work in the past 10 years. Younger workers may need less time. Your benefit amount depends on your earnings history.

SSI doesn’t require work history. It’s for people with limited income and resources. You generally can’t have more than $2,000 in assets if you’re single. The benefit amount is fixed and based on federal rates.

Some people qualify for both programs. Brian Gillette works with clients to determine which benefits they can pursue.

Medical Evidence That Matters

Your medical records are the foundation of your case. The Social Security Administration wants to see ongoing treatment. They look for doctor visits, test results, and medication records. They want to know how your condition affects daily tasks.

Large gaps in treatment can hurt your case. If you can’t afford care, apply for Medicaid or community health services. Keep seeing doctors even if treatments aren’t working well.

Tell your doctors about your symptoms. Explain what you can’t do anymore. Ask them to document your limitations in their notes. This helps create a record that supports your claim.

Working With a Social Security Disability Lawyer

A lawyer knows what evidence the Social Security Administration needs. They can review your medical records before you apply. They help you avoid mistakes that lead to denials.

If your case goes to appeal, a lawyer prepares you for the hearing. They know what judges ask. They can call medical experts who support your case. They handle the legal process so you can focus on your health.

Lawyers work on contingency for Social Security cases. You don’t pay unless you win. The fee comes from your back pay and is capped by federal law.

Common Questions About Social Security Disability in Richmond, VA

Q: How long does it take to get approved? 

A: Initial decisions usually take three to six months. If you need to appeal to the hearing level, it can take over a year. The timeline varies based on your case and the hearing office workload.

Q: Can I work while applying for disability? 

A: Limited work may be allowed. The Social Security Administration sets income limits called substantial gainful activity. In 2025, earning over $1,620 per month usually disqualifies you. There are exceptions for certain work attempts.

Q: What if my condition isn’t listed in Social Security’s guidelines? 

A: You can still qualify. If your condition doesn’t match a listing, the Social Security Administration looks at your residual functional capacity. This measures what work activities you can still do. If you can’t do any full-time work, you may qualify.

Key Points to Remember

Richmond residents apply for disability through the Social Security Administration, with cases reviewed by Virginia DDS.

Most initial claims are denied, but appeals can be successful with proper evidence and representation.

Medical documentation is crucial. Keep seeing doctors and document how your condition limits you.

You have 60 days to appeal a denial. Don’t wait too long to act.

A disability lawyer can improve your chances at every stage of the process.

Contact Gillette Law Group for Help With Your Social Security Disability Case

If you’re applying for Social Security Disability benefits in Richmond, VA or dealing with a denied claim, Gillette Law Group, PLLC, can help. Brian Gillette is a top-rated Social Security Disability attorney in Virginia. Call 855-873-2604 to schedule a consultation.