If you’ve worked for at least 10 years and paid Social Security taxes during that time, you can apply for Social Security retirement benefits at the age of 62 or older. Most people will have no problem receiving these benefits once they reach the age of retirement due to automatically meeting the retirement benefits requirements. By visiting your Social Security office, you can learn more about applying for retirement benefits and the documents you need to substantiate your claim.
Applying for Social Security disability benefits, however, is another story. Not everyone qualifies for disability benefits and the application process can be a challenge. Hiring a Social Security lawyer could be helpful in navigating this process. The less you know about the Social Security disability claims process, the more you can benefit from the knowledge and experience that a Social Security attorney has to offer. Here are a few reasons to consider hiring a disability lawyer when filing for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits or insurance claims.
Knowledge of the SSD Process
A disability in the family can hinder you from keeping up with your financial obligations. Loss of income from your disability could make it difficult to pay medical bills, mortgage, utility bills, car loan or daily living expenses. Social Security disability benefits can help resolve these financial problems. With legal representation, your chances of getting approved for these benefits are much higher.
Social Security attorneys are knowledgeable about the SSD process and can provide valuable input into making your claim. They can inform you about your disability eligibility as well as programs you qualify for and help you apply for the maximum benefits for which you’re eligible. If you’re in a special case such as applying for disability benefits for a child, this can be particularly important. Your attorney can also monitor the progress of your claim.
Documentation for Your Disability Claim
The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires that people submit medical records to substantiate their disability. An attorney can help you gather crucial documents that will support your case. Your medical records act as evidence to back up your claim. Lack of evidence could cause SS officials to deny you the disability benefits you deserve. If you’re having trouble obtaining your records from a hospital or physician’s office, your attorney can help speed up the process. The sooner your medical records get into the hands of your SS office, the sooner they can process your claim.
Your attorney can also help you complete forms relating to daily activities or work history which are pivotal to deciding your case. Incomplete or contrasting answers on these forms could cause officials to deny your claim. In order to make a good judgment, SS officials need a complete picture of your medical state. Your attorney will ensure you provide SS with all the information they need to make a fair judgment concerning your case.
A Social Security Attorney is an Advocate in Your Corner
Your disability lawyer will be an advocate who fights on your behalf for the benefits you need. With so many claims being made annually, your application could become misplaced, lost or simply clogged in the process. An experienced attorney will know who to call and what to do to get your application moving down the line. Knowing the right people can be helpful in speeding your application along. If problems arise, your attorney can rectify them quickly to avoid processing delays or outright denial of your claim.
Disability Lawyers Can Handle Claim Denials and Appeals
Sometimes disability claims are denied, despite efforts to the contrary. When this happens, your attorney can instigate an investigation into the denial and request a claim review or file for an appeal, depending on his or her findings. An appeal would require that your attorney argue the case in court before an administrative law judge. Unlike the average layman, an experienced disability lawyer won’t be intimidated by a court appearance, making him or her the perfect candidate for the job.
Taking into consideration the many aspects involved in filing for SSD benefits, a Social Security disability lawyer can be a tremendous asset in a disability case. Working with a qualified lawyer could be key to the success of your case. Look for an attorney who has your best interests at heart, has experience with SS claims and is willing to go the extra mile to see you get a fair judgment in your case.