Fairhope SSD Lawyer Helping Clients File for Social Security Disability Benefits
Previously, in order to apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits you’d have to reach out directly to a local Social Security Administration office and ask them to mail you an application, or go in and fill it out by hand. Today, there are multiple ways to apply. You can do it online, via phone, or by walking into a local Social Security Administration office. Unfortunately, 2/3 of initial applications are turned down, so depending on your circumstances, your best move may be to seek out legal help before starting the application process. At the end of the day, a reputable Social Security lawyer can save you a lot of time when it comes to working with the Social Security Administration.
What Is The SSD Application Process?
Submitting an application to the Social Security Administration is the first step in filing for SSD. At that point, an examiner will be assigned to your claim, which can tend to be a lengthy and complex process. To be eligible, your injury or illness must be extreme enough that you cannot work. On top of that, you’ll need to submit detailed medical records and a statement from your doctor that works as evidence to your claim. Eventually, you’ll need to show evidence that your physical or mental disability will last at least one year or until death. Because the approval or denial is based on the documents you submit, you may want the advice of a Social Security lawyer to ensure each document is submitted correctly and on time.
How Are SSD Claims Evaluated?
The Social Security Administration’s examiner will look at your application to see if you have the minimum number of work credits. Credits are based on the income you’ve earned in your lifetime and the amount of credits required is adjusted on a regular basis and depends on your age when you apply for disability benefits. The examiner will also look at your most recent paychecks. In the event you are making too much money, the examiner may decide to deny you Social Security disability benefits.
If you meet the minimum financial parameters, your examiner will pass your application onto Disability Determination Services for a full analysis of your case. A Social Security attorney can look over your claim to help you determine if you have enough credits to apply for Social Security Disability benefits.
What Is the Disability Determination Services Process?
Let’s say you do meet the basic financial requirements, the Disability Determination Services will conduct a full analysis and make the decision on whether to approve your claim. One of the first steps in the process is looking at the medical records you provide. They’ll want to make sure your condition fits their official description of a “disability” and that you’re unable to work.
If the examiner determines you’ve provided an insufficient amount of evidence about the severity of your condition, the Social Security Administration may assign you a physician they work with to give you an exam. The results of these medical exams could be a key factor in the outcome of your claim. At this stage, if your claim is denied, you’ll receive a detailed explanation as well as information on how to appeal the decision. This is a key place where a Social Security attorney can work with you to make the next, very important step.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Apply for Social Security Disability?
Because 2/3 of all SSD applications are denied, it’s a benefit to have a Social Security attorney working with you. Our Fairhope law firm can submit the application in a way that gets a positive outcome. The application process can be overwhelming, we’ll handle everything from gathering documents, communicating with your medical team to ensure we have proper evidence and submit all documents on time.
If your claim happens to be denied again, a Social Security lawyer fights next to you through the entire appeal process. Walton Law LLC is committed to helping you win the benefits you need. Call our office at 251-455-5819 for a free consultation.
