Can Having a Social Security Lawyer Improve Chances of Being Awarded Benefits?

06/03/09

Q: How can you assure you have done everything you can to give your social security disability case the best chance of being approved?

A: You can certainly do things to make sure your social security application is adjudicated fairly, in spite of the fact that the majority of applications are not approved when they are initially reviewed. The first step is to make sure you have a doctor who is supportive of your decision to file for disability. It is imperative that your doctor provides a thorough and supportive statement regarding your condition and your inability to work. The second thing sounds obvious, but it will affect how long it takes for your case to be reviewed and whether it is approved or not. Be certain that you submit all required forms within the mandatory timelines and that everything is correct. After you know you submitted all the required forms accurately, your next task is submitting complete and the most current records of your medical condition and treatment. The number one reason most cases are delayed is because of medical records. Being helpful and cooperative when you communicate with your disability examiner and other people working on your file is the fourth way you can give your claim the best chance. The fifth thing is to be aware of where in the process your claim is. If you are utilizing the services of a social security lawyer, he or she will do this for you or you can contact the representative handling your case. Likewise, it is smart to be in contact with your social security lawyer just to assure your case is moving forward and you have submitted all the required paperwork and forms.

Q: Do you need a social security lawyer to win a disability claim?

A: It is not required that you have a social security lawyer in order to apply for disability benefits. If your claim is denied after the initial review process, however, you may wish to seek the counsel of a lawyer at that time. The next step would be to file for reconsideration. You do not need a social security lawyer to file for reconsideration. The majority of claims, however, are still not approved after being reconsidered. After being reconsidered and denied, your claim will need to be appealed and go to hearing. Again, it is not required that you have legal representation for the hearing process. The majority of claims that are approved after being heard before a judge have been represented by a lawyer. The hearing phase is the last chance for your claim to be approved. The expertise of a social security lawyer will be invaluable to helping your case through the process appropriately and justly.

Q: How do you apply for social security disability benefits?

A: There are several ways to apply for social security disability benefits. Contact your nearest Social Security office by phone and make a request to submit an application. You can also do this in person at a Social Security office. The third option is to apply online via the Social Security Administration website. A representative will call you to establish an interview date, and you can choose to do that interview in person or by telephone.