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. To start, be certain that your physician supports your case. Having a physician who will provide a solid and comprehensive background about your injury and how it has affected your ability to perform your work duties is vital to your claim. 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. Make sure you fill out all paperwork correctly and adhere to all deadlines. 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. Number five on the list is to always know where your case is in the review process. 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. You will need to submit paperwork to have your claim reconsidered. To have a claim reconsidered, it does not need to be represented by a social security lawyer. But most cases are denied after reconsideration. And the next step after reconsideration is an appeal to have the case heard before an administrative judge. It is not mandatory that you have a lawyer to go through the hearing phase. Most cases that win after the hearing process, though, have legal representation. This is the final opportunity for your case to be heard. The expertise of a social security lawyer will be invaluable to helping your case through the process appropriately and justly.
Q: What do you need to do to begin the application process for disability insurance?
A: You can submit your disability application via three options. You can call Social Security directly and tell them you would like to file a claim. If you would rather take care of this by visiting an actual office, you can do that too. The last method in which you could submit your application is on the web at http://www.ssa.gov/. The manager handling your case will then contact you to set up an appointment for an initial interview via phone or in person (your choice).