You are unable to work due to medical conditions or medically determinable physical or mental impairments. What do you do? You may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
If you are considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits, it is beneficial to first speak with an attorney for a free consultation. While the initial application can be completed without an attorney, you are more likely to be approved if you have an attorney offering assistance. Most initial application denials occur because the applicant did not provide enough detail about impairments and failed to produce adequate supporting evidence.
When filing an initial application, an attorney can advise you about the importance of the “disability onset date” and further explain Social Security’s recognized list of impairments. Additionally, an experienced disability attorney knows how to best articulate your limitations to persuade Social Security to rule favorably.
If Social Security denies your initial application, an attorney can help you navigate the reconsideration or hearing phase, assist in gathering medical evidence to substantiate your claim, and prepare you for an Administrative Law Judge’s questions should you have a hearing.
Finally, in the event your claim goes to the Appeals Council level, a disability attorney can craft a legal argument supporting your claim and offer reasons why the Administrative Law Judge erred in his or her decision.
Most importantly, an experienced disability attorney is up to date on filing requirements with the Social Security Administration and knows when and how to submit evidence. Failure to follow these steps often lead to denials of claims.
Why hire an attorney? You may believe an attorney costs too much. What you may now know is disability attorneys’ fees are regulated by federal law. The fee is 25% of back pay (past due benefits awarded) or a maximum of $6,000.00. Initial expenses, such as fees to obtain medical records, are nominal and you are only charged a fee if you win your case. The benefits to hiring an experienced disability attorney far outweigh the costs.
So, why would you start this process? Social Security disability benefits when awarded can provide a peace of mind and ease the financial burden one faces when dealing with chronic medical issues and/or physical or mental impairments.
We are here for you when you need help the most. Let us help you navigate this process today.
To learn more, visit our Social Security Disability page.
To speak with a social security disability attorney, use our Fast Pass link to schedule a consultation and be contacted within one business day.