You do not have to work with an attorney in order to apply for Social Security Disability. There is nothing in the rules that require an attorney to be present during any portion of the application process; nor is there anything that requires an attorney during the appeal process.

However, we believe that it would be a mistake not to work with an experienced attorney. For one, the SSD system is overly complicated and it can be quite difficult to understand. Rather than wasting your time trying to figure out a system that seems to want to confuse you at every turn, you can leave the heavy lifting to an attorney so you can focus on the things that matter most to you in life.

What Are the Benefits of Working With an Attorney?

Working with an attorney can seem like it’s just a waste of money if you don’t understand the value that they bring to the table. Many people that apply for benefits on their own get denied and don’t ever fully understand why. The system is esoteric and overwhelming, so they consider it easier to just toss in the towel and try to find another solution to their problems.

This is a horrible waste of time and energy. If you are suffering from a disability then you deserve to get benefits and a good attorney will work tirelessly to help you achieve that goal. But that’s not the only benefit that comes from working with an attorney. There are others, all equally valuable, such as:

● Compiling: It is important that the Social Security Administration be provided with enough information and evidence to prove your disability and need of additional resources. Unfortunately, this can be harder than it sounds. There is a high bar of evidence that must be provided, though an attorney can help ensure that you compile enough.
● Knowledge: One of the key benefits of working with an attorney is that you have unlimited access to all their knowledge. As professionals, dealing with SSD applications and the like is part of their duty. They have to understand the system if they are going to work with it and therefore you can save yourself the energy of trying to find the information you need; just ask and you shall receive.
● Time: Those who suffer from a disability need a lot of time to rest and recover. However, you have to spend that time researching and dealing with bureaucracy when going at things alone. Hiring an attorney can give you more time to focus on what matters most to you.
● Inconsistencies: It is very important that there are no errors or inconsistencies in your initial application. The information in that application is kept as part of the permanent claim for benefits and therefore any inconsistencies or misinformation can cause issues down the road. An attorney will ensure there are no inconsistencies before submitting.

I Applied Without an Attorney and They Denied My Application, What Do I Do?

If your claim was denied then it might feel like you don’t have any options.

But you do.

You are able to appeal the decision. This gives you a chance to meet in person and argue your point, as well as provide any new evidence you have that proves your disability. However, if you don’t know what went wrong with your application in the first place then you can do little to correct that issue through an appeal.

Working with an attorney can help you to identify the issue with the application and then work to counter it with newly collected evidence.

I Think I’m Ready to Work With an Attorney?

If you are ready to work with an attorney to ensure that your SSD application is in order then you are taking an important step towards getting your benefits. We’re always happy to help individuals seek the financial support they need to deal with their disabilities.