Around 36 million Americans of all ages live their life with at least one disabling condition. While some of these conditions are minor, many are severe enough to make living a normal life more difficult. For those with more severe impairments, there is a way to get help.
If you suffer from a disability that negatively impacts your daily life, you may want to speak with a disability advocate or a disability attorney to see if you qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The money that you could receive from these programs could greatly improve your quality of life if you can't work due to a disability.
Here are our top 5 reasons to speak to a disability attorney. These reasons are just five among many--you can find out exactly how an attorney can help your particular case by calling one today.
1) Get a quick preliminary evaluation to see if you may qualify for benefits
While some medical conditions may be hard to judge with certainty, you can get an idea of whether or not you qualify for disability benefits by receiving a quick evaluation from an attorney.
Depending on how your disability affects your ability to work, your ability to find new work, and the severity of your condition, they can gauge whether or not Social Security may be for you.
You may also find more information on your condition in the Blue Book, which lists all disabilities recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the severity required to qualify for benefits. This information and much more can be found online and further explained by a disability attorney.
2) Receive help with your initial Social Security claim
Should you decide to file for Social Security benefits, you will need to fill out an application to send to the SSA. This application requires detailed information on your medical history and income, and can sometimes be tricky to file.
It is especially important that all information listed is accurate to ensure you have the highest chance of qualifying. While this claim can be com-pleted alone, having the help of a disability attorney reduces the chance of mistakes and makes filing your application much simpler.
3) Update the SSA on any changes with medical records
Because so many Americans have disabilities, it is important that the SSA stays up-to-date on their recipients and continues giving money to those who demonstrate the most need.
This means that the SSA needs regular updates on the status of your medical condition both during and after the application process. Handling this paperwork can be confusing, which is why a disability attorney can be extremely helpful in staying organized and communicating with the SSA for you.
4) Receive representation in court in front of an ALJ
Sometimes disability applications are denied by the SSA. In these cases, the applicant has the option of requesting a Social Security disability hearing.
This is an informal meeting where an administrative law judge (ALJ) reviews your claim and asks questions to potentially overrule the decision on your case. It is very beneficial during these hearings to have an attorney present, who is familiar with the legal system and knows how to fight for you.
5) No payment to the attorney unless you win your case
Disability attorneys do not receive payment for their services unless you are deemed qualified for either SSI or SSDI. This makes the process far less stressful and assures you that your attorney is doing everything in their power to get you the help you need.
Contacting a Social Security Attorney
Disability attorneys are an irreplaceable resource when filing for Social Security disability benefits. To give yourself the best chance at receiving the assistance you deserve, consider speaking with an attorney today.
