Can You Win Your Case Without a Social Security Lawyer?
Q: Are there things an applicant can do to improve his chances for receiving social security disability benefits?
A: Although most disability cases are denied after the initial review process, you can make sure you have done everything in your power to give your case the best foundation. The first step is to make sure you have a doctor who is supportive of your decision to file for disability. 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. Be certain that you submit all required forms within the mandatory timelines and that everything is correct. Once you are confident your application will not be held up because of missing paperwork or errors, submit copies of your most recent medical records. The number one reason most cases are delayed is because of medical records. The fourth thing you can do to help your case is to always cooperate with the case manager and other representatives handling your claim. 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. It may be wise, though, to hire an attorney if your initial application for benefits was not approved. The next step would be to file for reconsideration. To have a claim reconsidered, it does not need to be represented by a social security lawyer. 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. It is not mandatory that you have a lawyer to go through the hearing phase. 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: 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 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.