Can You Get Social Security Disability for a Partial Disability?

I explain why there’s no such thing as “partial disability” for Social Security Disability purposes: Social Security pays benefits only if you’re fully disabled under its rules. 

Even if you can’t do your past work (like nursing or truck driving), you may be denied if you can still perform simple entry-level “warm body” jobs that exist in the regional or national economy, such as a greeter, textile inspector, foil wrapper, surveillance system monitor, or receptionist with a sit-stand option—regardless of pay, overqualification, boredom, transportation issues, or local job availability. 

I also discuss how ongoing part-time work can hurt a claim because judges may assume you could work full-time, while failed work attempts can help by showing you tried but couldn’t sustain work.

VACAVILLE OFFICE
601 Buck Avenue
Vacaville, CA 95688
707.452.9606

FAIRFIELD OFFICE
727 Texas Street
Fairfield, CA 94533
707.421.7800

Contact Us

Website

 

What Should You Do After a Workplace Injury?

Getting injured at work can be overwhelming.

There's the physical pain, of course. But there can also be questions about medical treatment, missed work, paperwork, benefits and what happens next.

That's one reason workers' compensation exists.

Workers' compensation generally provides benefits for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Common workplace injuries can include strains and sprains, slips and falls, cuts, impact injuries and repetitive-motion injuries.

The important thing to remember is that every situation is different.

A back injury caused by lifting something heavy may look very different from an injury caused by a workplace fall. A repetitive-motion condition may develop gradually rather than from one specific incident.

That's why documenting what happened can be important.

If you're injured at work, follow your employer's procedures for reporting the injury and seek appropriate medical attention. Keep copies of relevant paperwork and records, and pay attention to communications from your employer and insurance carrier.

You may also have questions about what benefits could apply to your particular circumstances.

Hodson & Mullin has represented injured and disabled clients in Northern California for more than 25 years, with a focus that includes workers' compensation and Social Security Disability. The firm has offices in both Vacaville and Fairfield.

Their workers' compensation practice handles cases involving work-related injuries and illnesses and helps clients understand their legal rights and potential benefits.

The biggest lesson is simple:

Don't assume you have to figure everything out by yourself.

A workplace injury can create enough stress without adding uncertainty about the legal and administrative process.

Getting informed about your rights and options can be an important first step.

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice or a substitute for consulting an attorney about a specific situation.

VACAVILLE OFFICE
601 Buck Avenue
Vacaville, CA 95688
707.452.9606

FAIRFIELD OFFICE
727 Texas Street
Fairfield, CA 94533
707.421.7800

Contact Us

Website

Injured at Work? Understanding Why Workers' Compensation Can Be Complicated

Getting injured at work can create much more than physical pain.

There may be medical appointments, missed work, questions about income, paperwork, insurance communications, and uncertainty about what happens next.

For injured workers, understanding the basics of workers' compensation can be an important first step.

Hodson & Mullin focuses on Workers' Compensation and Social Security Disability matters and has served clients in Solano County for more than 25 years. The firm also notes that its principals are Certified Specialists in Workers' Compensation Law through the State Bar of California's Board of Legal Specialization.

What Is Workers' Compensation?

Workers' compensation is a system designed to provide benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses.

Depending on the circumstances, benefits can involve medical treatment, disability payments, vocational rehabilitation, death benefits, and other forms of assistance.

The specific benefits available depend on the facts of the individual case.

A Workplace Injury Isn't Always a Dramatic Accident

When people hear "work injury," they may picture an obvious accident.

But workplace injuries can happen in many different ways.

Some injuries result from a single incident, while others can develop over time due to repetitive activities or workplace conditions.

That distinction can matter when determining how a claim should be handled.

Insurance Companies Have Their Own Interests

Workers' compensation claims often involve insurance companies and claims adjusters.

Understanding who is representing whom is important.

An insurance adjuster works for the insurance company. An attorney representing an injured worker works for the injured worker.

That difference can become especially important when questions arise about medical care, disability benefits, settlements, or other aspects of a claim.

The Process Can Be Confusing

California workers' compensation law is complex, and rules and procedures can change.

An injured worker may have questions such as:

• What benefits may be available?
• What medical treatment can be covered?
• What happens if the insurance company disputes the claim?
• How does temporary or permanent disability work?
• What happens if an injury affects the ability to return to work?
• Should a settlement be considered?

The answers depend on the specific circumstances.

Don't Assume You Have to Navigate Everything Alone

Legal matters can become stressful very quickly, particularly when someone is also dealing with an injury or disability.

Having accurate information about your rights and options can make the process easier to understand.

Hodson & Mullin handles Workers' Compensation and Social Security Disability matters and has offices in Fairfield and Vacaville.

If you've been injured at work or are dealing with a disability claim, getting advice about your particular situation can help you understand what steps may be available.

This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Workers' compensation laws and individual circumstances vary. Anyone dealing with a workplace injury or disability claim should consult a qualified attorney about their specific situation.

VACAVILLE OFFICE
601 Buck Avenue
Vacaville, CA 95688
707.452.9606

FAIRFIELD OFFICE
727 Texas Street
Fairfield, CA 94533
707.421.7800

Contact Us

Website

Neck and back Issues...Can You Win Without and MRI?

I explain whether you really need an MRI report in your case file when you’re pursuing Social Security Disability for neck pain, back pain, or other joint pain—one of the most common types of claims judges see. 

VACAVILLE OFFICE
601 Buck Avenue
Vacaville, CA 95688
707.452.9606

FAIRFIELD OFFICE
727 Texas Street
Fairfield, CA 94533
707.421.7800

Contact Us

Website

Five Ways to Stay Organized During a Legal Claim

Whether you're dealing with a workplace injury or applying for disability benefits, staying organized can make an already stressful situation feel more manageable.

Here are five simple ways to keep everything in order.

1. Create One Place for Important Documents

Use a folder or binder to store medical records, insurance information, correspondence, appointment summaries, and any forms related to your claim.

Having everything in one location makes it easier to find what you need.

2. Keep a Calendar

Record medical appointments, therapy sessions, deadlines, and important phone calls. A calendar can help you stay on top of your schedule and avoid missing important dates.

3. Save Contact Information

Keep a list of phone numbers and email addresses for your healthcare providers, employer, insurance representatives, and legal team.

Having this information readily available can save time when questions arise.

4. Write Down Questions

Questions often come to mind between appointments or conversations. Keeping a running list allows you to remember what you'd like to discuss the next time you speak with your healthcare provider or attorney.

5. Take Things One Step at a Time

Legal and medical processes can involve many moving parts. Focusing on one task at a time and staying organized can help make the experience feel less overwhelming.

Preparation Can Make a Difference

While every claim is different, good organization can help you stay informed and prepared throughout the process. Keeping accurate records and asking questions when needed allows you to participate more confidently as your claim moves forward.

VACAVILLE OFFICE
601 Buck Avenue
Vacaville, CA 95688
707.452.9606

FAIRFIELD OFFICE
727 Texas Street
Fairfield, CA 94533
707.421.7800

Contact Us

Website

Common Myths About Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability programs can be confusing, and misinformation often makes the process seem even more complicated. Let's separate a few common myths from the facts.

Myth: Every Disability Is Visible

Fact: Many qualifying medical conditions are not immediately obvious to others. Physical conditions, chronic illnesses, neurological disorders, and mental health conditions may all affect a person's ability to work, depending on the circumstances.

Myth: Applying Is Always Quick and Simple

Fact: The application process often involves medical records, work history, and other documentation. Processing times vary depending on the individual case.

Myth: You Should Give Up If Your Initial Application Is Denied

Fact: Some applicants pursue the appeals process after an initial denial. Every case is different, and additional review may be available depending on the circumstances.

Myth: Age Is the Only Factor

Fact: Disability determinations generally consider multiple factors, including medical evidence, work history, functional limitations, and applicable program requirements—not age alone.

Myth: Medical Documentation Isn't Important

Fact: Medical records play an important role in disability claims. Keeping appointments, following treatment recommendations, and maintaining communication with healthcare providers can help ensure your medical history is well documented.

Reliable Information Matters

Understanding the Social Security Disability process begins with accurate information. If you have questions about your specific situation, speaking with a qualified attorney or other appropriate professional can help you better understand your available options.

VACAVILLE OFFICE
601 Buck Avenue
Vacaville, CA 95688
707.452.9606

FAIRFIELD OFFICE
727 Texas Street
Fairfield, CA 94533
707.421.7800

Contact Us

Website

Long-term Disability | Top 5 reasons why mental illness claims are denied

In this video, I'm going to take you through the top five reasons why people get denied disability claims for mental illness. And then for each of those reasons, I'm going to give you a solution so that you can prevent your own claim from being denied.

VACAVILLE OFFICE
601 Buck Avenue
Vacaville, CA 95688
707.452.9606

FAIRFIELD OFFICE
727 Texas Street
Fairfield, CA 94533
707.421.7800

Contact Us

Website