Navigating the bureaucratic process for Social Security benefits can be frustrating and confusing. Rather than handling the process yourself, a disability attorney can guide you with positive results. Attorneys with this experience understand the governance process and how to move through it effectively.

Time is of the essence

Disability claims have a limited period during which you can apply for benefits. If you miss this period of time, you may not have a successful claim. Your attorney will have expert knowledge of the time required to process a petition and the best date to submit an application to ensure it is completed on time before the deadline. Without an attorney working on your behalf, you may apply too late.

Handling details

Applications for benefits are complicated and detailed. Completing the application on your own without professional assistance could result in a rejection. The Social Security Administration routinely rejects applications if they are not completed correctly or if the claimant did not submit them correctly. With a disability attorney working for you to handle your application, you can be assured that the application will be completed correctly and submitted according to the proper procedure.

Understanding the system

A disability attorney will have an expert knowledge of all types of claims and cases. This experience will allow the attorney to provide guidance and recommendations on the best way to handle the claim. The attorney has first-hand knowledge of what the Social Security Administration wants in the claims on the application. Consequently, the advice you receive will help you avoid common mistakes that could lead to the rejection of your application.

Including medical evidence

A full case will include strong medical evidence to support the disability claim. The attorney will help you gather this evidence, including details about the disability, your employment history, your age, and the events that led to your current condition. Your application and medical evidence can be submitted online, over the phone, or in person with your attorney present.

Rejection and request for reconsideration

Up to 70 percent of all initial applications are rejected by the Social Security Administration’s Office of Disability Determination Services. If this occurs, your attorney will be ready to help you file your request for reconsideration. To be accepted, your request for reconsideration must reach the Disability Determination Services office within 60 days of the first denial. If your request for reconsideration is denied, you can file an appeal.

The appeal process

The appeals process involves a hearing before a judge, a board review, and a federal court review. The hearing involves a review of your case with witness interviews, if you wish. The judge will make a decision on your petition. If you want to appeal the judge’s decision, you can ask for another review by a council. The council will issue a ruling on your case. If you want to appeal the council’s decision, you can request a review in federal court.

Throughout this appeal process, a disability attorney can help ensure that the evidence you present is objective and supports your claim of illness or injury. Having a representative in your corner can make the whole process easier.