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Social Security Disability Attorneys in Knoxville, Tennessee

According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), nearly 70 million people received benefits from SSA programs in 2021. Across Tennessee and the United States, adults and children with disabilities — and limited income or resources — may qualify to receive monthly payments through the Social Security Disability program. However, eligibility for these benefits depends on meeting specific federal requirements and providing sufficient medical and financial documentation.


If you’re considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits, it’s essential to understand your rights and options before you begin. Consulting with an experienced Tennessee Social Security Disability attorney can make all the difference. With over 50 years of combined experience, the attorneys at Wykoff & Sikes have the skill and dedication to guide clients through every step of the process.


Our team takes the time to understand your individual circumstances, explain eligibility requirements clearly, and determine your best path to approval. If your initial claim is denied, we can assist with filing an appeal and continue fighting for the benefits you deserve.


At Wykoff & Sikes, PLLC, we proudly represent clients in Knoxville, Tennessee, and the surrounding areas — including Sevierville, Crossville, Chattanooga, and Johnson City.

For Skilled Representation

Social Security Disability Insurance vs. Supplemental Security Income

In the United States, people with disabilities may qualify for two forms of benefits: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Here are some differences between the two.


Work Credits: Eligibility for SSDI is based on the person's work history. Conversely, eligibility for SSI benefits is not determined by the person's work history. Rather, you may qualify for SSI benefits if you have limited assets and income.


Disability: SSDI benefits are for disabled adults and children. In contrast, SSI benefits are for older adults and individuals who are blind or disabled.


A skilled lawyer can evaluate your unique situation and determine your eligibility for Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.

Qualifying for Benefits

Here are the eligibility requirements for SSDI benefits:


  • You must have worked in employment covered by Social Security.
  • You must have a medical condition that meets Social Security's definition of disability.


Under Social Security rules, a person is considered to be disabled if:


  • They are unable to work or engage in substantial gainful activity due to their health.
  • They are unable to do a previous job or adjust to new employment due to their medical condition.
  • Their health condition has lasted or will last for one year or more or cause the person's death.


However, not all applications for SSDI benefits are approved. Even if you meet the eligibility requirements, the SSA may still deny or terminate your disability benefits due to a number of reasons.

Reasons That Social Security Disability Is Denied

Here are some reasons why your Social Security disability benefits may be denied:


  • You have too much earnings.
  • Your benefits were denied previously.
  • There is a lack of medical evidence to prove your disability.
  • You failed to follow your physician's treatment or therapy recommendations.
  • You failed to cooperate or provide additional information requested by the SSA.
  • Your disability isn't severe or won't last long enough.
  • The SSA was unable to contact you.
  • Your disability is due to alcoholism, drug abuse, or addiction.
  • You have a criminal record or felony conviction.
  • You committed fraud.
  • You may be able to return to your previous employment.


If you believe that the SSA denied your disability benefits unfairly, you should reach out to an experienced Social Security disability attorney immediately. Your legal counsel can investigate the reason for the denial and help file your appeal.

Appealing a Denial

Here are the available options or levels to appeal a denial of your disability benefits:


  • File a request for the SSA to reconsider their decision.
  • Request for a hearing with an administrative law judge.
  • Ask for an evaluation with the Appeals Council.
  • File a federal district court action with the U.S. District Court.


Generally, you have up to 60 days after receiving the notice of denial to appeal the decision. A seasoned lawyer can explore your available legal options to appeal the denial, help file your appeal request, and guide you through the legal procedures involved.

Work With Trusted Social Security Disability Attorneys

Applying for Social Security disability benefits can help provide you with the financial support you need if you're disabled and unable to work. However, there are several complexities involved in applying for disability benefits, and your claims might be denied. Therefore, consulting with a trusted Social Security disability attorney is imperative for detailed guidance and to advocate for your legal rights.


At Wykoff & Sikes, PLLC, our attorneys are committed to protecting the best interests of disabled adults and children and their families. Whether you're applying for disability benefits or you need help appealing a denial, our legal team can help file your claims, provide the necessary documentation, and represent you diligently at every phase. Above all, we will fight vigorously for your rights and make sure you receive your rightful disability benefits.

Social Security Disability Attorneys in Knoxville, Tennessee

If you need assistance applying for Social Security disability benefits or want to appeal a denial, contact us at Wykoff & Sikes, PLLC today for a simple consultation. Our dedicated team can offer you the highly-personalized legal counsel and reliable advocacy you need. We're proud to serve clients across Knoxville, Sevierville, Crossville, Chattanooga, and Johnson City, Tennessee.

Attorney at Law

Wayne Wykoff

Wayne focuses his practice in the areas of social security disability and domestic law (including divorce, child custody, child support). Wayne was admitted to the practice of law in 1993 and his practice continually in east Tennessee since that time achieving good and just result for his clients on a regular basis. Wayne enjoys mediating and is a rule 31 listed family mediator in Tennessee. Wayne can give you value as a mediator whether you are negotiating retirement accounts and other complex financial issues or dealing with the much more important issues of who will raise the children and under what circumstances.


Wayne graduated from East Tennessee State University in 1980 with a degree in computer science and graduated from the University Tennessee law school in December 1992. Wayne was admitted to the Tennessee bar in April 1993 and was admitted to the federal courts in the Eastern District of Tennessee in 1993 also.


Wayne was born and raised in Johnson City, but has called Knoxville his home for the last 25+ years. Wayne enjoys his family consisting of his wife and 2 boys and playing tennis and golf on a regular basis.