If you’re disabled and looking to apply for Social Security Disability benefits, it can be a confusing and overwhelming process. That’s why it is important to seek the help of a qualified attorney who specializes in disability law. Here are five reasons why you should enlist the help of an attorney when applying for Social Security Disability.
Knowledge of the Law
A disability lawyer will have a thorough knowledge of the law and its nuances that can help you get approved for benefits. An experienced attorney can quickly determine if your case has merit and guide you through the entire application process, including helping complete paperwork, gathering medical records and evidence, representing you at hearings, filing appeals if necessary, and more.
Stress Relief
Applying for Social Security Disability is a time-consuming process that requires an immense amount of paperwork and documentation. Having an attorney on your side can take some of the stress off your shoulders by ensuring all documents are completed properly and submitted on time so that your claim is processed as quickly as possible.
Expert Negotiation
The majority of initial claims are denied due to incomplete or inaccurate information; however, with an experienced law office advocating on your behalf, there’s a better chance for success with your appeal or hearing. Your attorney will be familiar with what type of evidence is needed to prove your case and understand how best to present that evidence in court. They will also know how to negotiate with opposing counsel or representatives from the SSA in order to get the best outcome possible for you.
Increased Chances of Approval
When it comes to filing a claim for SSDI benefits, having an experienced disability lawyer on your side gives you a much better chance of getting approved than going it alone. In fact, studies show that claimants represented by attorneys tend to get approved twice as often as those who don’t have legal representation. Furthermore, having legal representation increases the chances that any backpay owed will be obtained faster than if you were filing without assistance since attorneys understand how to navigate the system more efficiently than someone without their expertise or experience might do on their own.
No Cost Upfront
Most disability lawyers work on contingency fees which means they don’t charge upfront costs or fees unless they successfully win your case. This ensures that everyone has access to quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation or ability to pay upfront costs associated with hiring an attorney right away.
Regardless of whether you’ve been denied SSDI benefits before or this is your first attempt at filing a claim, having qualified legal representation is essential when submitting any applications related to SSDI or SSI. With all the complexities involved in today’s claims processes from accurately completing paperwork to dealing directly with government officials throughout various stages of proceedings—from initial application through appeals—it pays off handsomely to have an expert in your corner every step along the way who knows how best handle each situation as required by law so that you receive all benefits entitled under current laws governing social security disability claims processing procedures.
Written by: Rachelle Wilber
About author: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @RachelleWilber; https://www.facebook.com/people/Rachelle-Wilber/100009221637700/
