Should You Hire a Social Security Lawyer for the Reconsideration Phase?

Q: Is there anything you can do to increase the likelihood that your disability claim with social security will be approved?
A: You definitely can do some things to increase the likelihood that your social security disability will be approved. The best way to give your application a good chance at approval is to have a physician who is on your side. The claims examiner will place a lot of importance upon the letter your physician will be asked to write detailing your condition and how it affects your ability to work. Your claim will not have a strong chance, unless you have a doctor who is on your side. If you have a supportive physician who believes in your decision to apply for disability, submit your application and assure that you have completed the forms thoroughly and accurately. You will add time to the already lengthy process and put your chance of approval in jeopardy, if you have not submitted everything correctly. Similarly, do not miss any deadlines. Take charge of making sure all records regarding your medical condition have been received by your disability examiner. Lack of medical records is the number one cause of delays. The examiner for your case will not be able to adjudicate your claim if he or she does not have current and thorough medical information. Make sure you are courteous and helpful to the people who are dealing with your case. It will be easier to keep tabs on your case and understand what else might be needed, if you have a good relationship with the people handling your claim. Hiring a social security lawyer would be beneficial, if you believe you will not be able to be as present with your case as you would like to be. You may wish to hire a social security lawyer if you are denied benefits after your application has been reviewed. A legal advocate will be invaluable if you plan to have your claim reconsidered or heard before an administrative judge.
Q: Are there actions you can take after your initial disability claim is not approved?
A: Submitting a request to have your claim reconsidered is the next course of action after your initial claim was not approved. It is extremely important that you submit the paperwork for reconsideration within 60 days of the date your claim was denied. Do not miss this deadline or you will have to start at step one again. Applicants often decide to hire a social security lawyer after their initial claim was denied. Most cases that are reconsidered are still not approved. The hearing process is the next course of action. An advocate like a social security lawyer will assure your claim is given the best final chance at approval as it goes before a judge. The majority of claims that are awarded benefits during the hearing process have been represented by an attorney. Check with your claims representative if your initial claim was not approved and you plan to have it reconsidered. Some states are testing a process that does not require the reconsideration step. Again, if you are confused about any part of the process, you may wish to contact a social security lawyer.
Q: Can you apply for social security benefits online?
A: Yes, you can submit your application online. Go to www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability and you will find instructions for applying.
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