How a disability attorney can help you with your case
Navigating the bureaucratic process of Social Security benefits can be frustrating and confusing. Instead of handling the process yourself, a disability attorney can guide you to positive results. Attorneys with this experience understand the governmental process and how to proceed effectively.
time is of the essence
Disability claims have a finite period during which you can apply for benefits. If you miss this time frame, you may not have a successful claim. Your attorney will have expert knowledge of the time needed to process a petition and the best date to file the application to ensure it is completed on time before the deadline. Without an attorney working on your behalf, you may be filing too late.
handling details
Benefit applications are complicated and detailed. Completing the application on your own without professional assistance could result in rejection. The Social Security Administration routinely rejects applications if they are not completed correctly or if the claimant did not submit them correctly. With a disability attorney working for you to handle your application, you can rest assured that the application will be completed correctly and submitted according to proper procedure.
System Understanding
A disability attorney will have an expert understanding of all types of claims and cases. This experience will allow the attorney to provide guidance and recommendations on how best to handle the claim. The attorney has first-hand knowledge of what the Social Security Administration wants in claim applications. Consequently, the advice he receives will help him avoid common mistakes that could lead to the rejection of his application.
Includes medical evidence
A complete case will include strong medical evidence to support the disability claim. The attorney will help you gather this evidence, including details about the impairment, your work history, your age, and the events that led to your current condition. It is possible to present your medical evidence and application online, by phone, or in person with your attorney present.
Rejection and Request for Reconsideration
The Social Security Administration’s Office of Disability Determination Services rejects up to 70 percent of all initial applications. If this occurs, your attorney will be ready to help you file your request for reconsideration. To be accepted, your request for reconsideration must reach the Disability Determination Services office within 60 days of the first denial. If your request for reconsideration is denied, you may file an appeal.
The appeal process
The appeal process involves a hearing before a judge, a board review, and a federal court review. The hearing involves a review of your case with interviews of witnesses, if you wish. The judge will make a decision on her request. If you want to appeal the judge’s decision, you can ask for another review by a council. The council will issue a decision on your case. If you wish to appeal the board’s decision, you may request a review in federal court.
Throughout this appeal process, a disability attorney can help ensure that the evidence you present is factual and supports your illness or injury claim. Having a representative on your side can make the whole process easier.