After spending most of your life working and paying into Social Security, one day, you may become unable to continue working due to your age or perhaps your declining health. You may consider filing for disability benefits. Applying for disability benefits may feel intimidating and confusing. Many people are left wondering, “Do I need a lawyer for social security disability?”
Do I Need a Lawyer for Social Security Disability?
While you are not required to hire a lawyer during the Social Security Disability application process, having legal counsel will significantly decrease your chances of being denied benefits. Many people assume that the application process is quick, easy, and only requires filling out a few forms. This is not the case when it comes to applying for disability benefits. The application process can be complex, and it requires extensive paperwork, medical records, and other personal information. Errors or omissions could impact your claim negatively and may result in a denial of benefits. If you were denied benefits, having a disability attorney to help you through the next steps will make the process much easier.
What Is Required When Applying For Disability?
When applying for disability, you will need to present information about your medical condition, work history, and other personal information. It is crucial to provide complete and accurate information during the application process.
A Disability Attorney Can Help You Organize the Required Information
Compiling all of the required information on your own can be difficult and tedious. A disability attorney can assist you in organizing the correct information and ensuring it is comprehensive and satisfactory.
Medical Information
- Name, address, and telephone number of all treating physicians
- Dates and names of any medical tests you have undergone
- Names of medications you are taking and the prescribing doctor
Personal Information
- Your social security number
- Your date and place of birth
- Name and birth dates of any children who are minors
- Your current or former spouse’s social security number and date of birth as well as the place of marriage and date of divorce or death if applicable
- Your banking information including bank name and routing number or account number
Work Information
- Names and addresses of employers from the current year and year prior
- A copy of your Social Security Statement
- The amount of money earned in the current year and previous year
- A list of up to five jobs you have had in the last 15 years with dates of employment
- Information regarding any workers’ compensation benefits you field or intended to file for
- The start and end dates of any active-duty U.S. military service prior to 1968
What Happens If I Am Denied Benefits?
Finding out that you have been denied your benefits can feel frightening, but a majority of clients are denied on the application. There are many reasons why your disability claim may have been denied and it can be remedied. You may have filed the incorrect claim type, failed to show adequate medical proof, you may earn too much money, or it could be something else. If you were denied, your claim could be reevaluated during the appeals process. It is not recommended to attempt an appeal without the assistance of a knowledgeable disability attorney. Disability attorneys have experience with the Social Security claims process as well as insights into the specific requirements to get approval.
The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill Can Help
Whether you are applying for the first time or need to appeal a denial, the disability attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill are ready to assist you. Applying for SSDI or SSI on your own might seem straightforward at first, but you will quickly discover a lot goes into the process. Mistakes or missing information on the application can result in a denial or reduced payments. The attorneys and staff at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill have filed hundreds of applications. Contact us today for a free consultation.