How a Lawyer can Assist With Getting the Social Security Disability Insurance you Deserve
Whether you’re of retirement age or younger, a disability can strike you without warning. Not only is the disability disconcerting, but so are the seemingly endless hoops an applicant must jump through when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDIB).
Instead of attempting to navigate the maze of qualifications, definitions, and requirements by yourself, you’ll need an experienced advocate who will make certain that you receive the Social Security benefits you’re entitled to. A knowledgeable Social Security attorney can be your best friend in times like these. Here are some of the ways that an attorney can assist you through the SSDIB process.
Defining Disability – The Disability Insurance benefits program is open to those who have worked and paid SSI taxes for 20 out of the last 40 quarters and can be considered disabled.
“Disability” under Social Security is based on your inability to work. You are considered disabled under Social Security rules if: You are unable to do work that you did before; It is decided that you cannot perform other work because of your medical condition(s)
Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.
By conferring with an attorney beforehand, we can help you determine if you will actually qualify for DIB before you begin the application process.
The application process – Your application should be made in person at your local Social Security office. Your attorney can identify all the necessary documents that you will need for your application interview.
The Hearing – Once your application is processed, you will have to attend a hearing. Those who will determine your eligibility will have a medical and vocational expert on hand to hear your case. Your attorney will make sure that credible witnesses are present to verify your claim, and prepare you for the questions that will be asked.
After your hearing, the process of determining your eligibility for DIB may take two or three years. In some rare cases, an attorney will be able to speed up the process by making sure forms are completed and filed properly, and ensuring that those forms are legible.
If you become able to return to work while your claim is being decided, your attorney can advise you about how your claim will be affected.
Your disability is frustrating enough, and so is the process of getting disability benefits. The simplest misstep during filing or the hearing can delay your needed benefits. We can help you get the Social Security Disability Insurance you deserve. If you are disabled and in need of benefits, call us today!
