Are you unable to work due to an illness or injury? You may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits if so. The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) provides benefits to disabled individuals to assist with paying for basic needs, like food and shelter.
You may specifically qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) if you have worked in the past and have paid into the Social Security system. However, it’s important to understand that the SSA often denies initial applications. One way to improve your chances of receiving an approval is to enlist the help of a disability attorney.
What Does a Disability Attorney Do?
A disability attorney may assist you in various ways throughout the SSDI application process. First, they may help determine the answer to a basic question you likely have now: “Do I qualify for benefits?”
If the answer is yes, a disability lawyer may help by:
- Gathering the evidence you need to file a claim
- Assisting with the appeals process if the SSA denies your claim
- Handling all correspondence with the SSA throughout the application process
- Monitoring the status of your claim
- Ensuring all materials related to your claim remain organized
Completing these tasks alone can prove challenging when you’re also struggling with a disability. When a disability attorney handles them on your behalf, you can focus more on your health.
How Can They Help Me Apply?
The application process for SSDI can vary depending on the nature of your condition, whether the SSA requires you to undergo additional tests or provide additional documentation, etc. Other ways a disability lawyer may help if this occurs include:
- Preparing you for any interviews you may need to participate in
- Representing you in court, which may be necessary if the SSA denies your claim and you file an appeal
- Gathering additional documentation the SSA might request
- Helping you fill out forms properly
Be aware, you can hire a lawyer even if you didn’t when you began the application process. For instance, maybe the SSA denies your claim. You can begin working with a lawyer now to initiate the appeals process if so.
What Do I Need to Apply?
Per the SSA, you need the following documentation and information when applying for benefits:
- General identifying information, like your name, contact information, and Social Security number
- Medical documentation showing you have a disability that prevents you from working and is likely to continue preventing you from working for at least 12 months
- Information about former employers
- Information about family members who may qualify for benefits
The SSA encourages applicants not to delay in submitting their applications, even if they don’t have all the documentation they need on hand. Thus, you should not wait to get in touch with a disability attorney if you think you may qualify for benefits. They may help you gather any documentation you don’t currently have.
Get Connected With a Disability Attorney
The disability benefits application process is complex. Fortunately, it’s not a process you have to navigate by yourself.
A disability attorney can simplify the process and may improve your chances of receiving benefits. Learn more by taking the Free Case Evaluation today to speak with an independent attorney who subscribes to the website.
