How Can I File a Disability Claim?

Sometimes, no matter how careful we are and how healthy a lifestyle we lead; we can incur injuries or develop diseases that leave us unable to work. This is the reality for many individuals, and the reason why we have a social security disability program. However, for a multitude of reasons, the process to receive disability benefits can be extremely complicated and frustrating.

If you’ve been denied disability benefits, are struggling to complete the application, or don’t even know where to begin; you may consider retaining a disability lawyer to assist you in the process.

What is the Process of Filing a Disability Claim?

Filing a claim for disability is an extremely long and tedious process that can often stretch on for months or even years. The first step is to determine whether or not you are truly disabled per the definition of the social security administration. To determine this, you are asked a series of questions that attempt to ascertain:

  1. Whether you are currently working;
  2. Whether you have a recognized disability;
  3. Whether you can work at your old job;
  4. Whether you can do any job.

The questions sound simple and straightforward enough. But unfortunately, the vast majority of initial disability claims are denied. Therefore, appealing denials of disability claims has become an almost routine part of the process.

If you’ve been denied disability benefits or need help completing the application, a disability lawyer can help.

How Can a Disability Lawyer Help Me?

Disability lawyers know the SSD system better than anyone. These attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of the process and ensure that you don’t:

  • Miss important filing deadlines. In a process that routinely takes years to complete, timing is everything. A missed deadline can set you back even further or force you to start the process over.
  • Fill out paperwork incorrectly. Misspellings, items filled out in the wrong language, or even just missing a section by mistake can cause a claim to be denied.
  • Send the information to the wrong parties. If the information doesn’t get to the intended recipient, you may be late in filing your claim, which could result in a missed deadline and ultimately, a denial.
  • Ineffectively communicate your needs to the SSA or the judge, if you need to take your case to court. There is specific language necessary to successfully file a disability claim. If you do not communicate exactly what it is you need and why you need it, you may find yourself being denied SSD benefits and being forced to begin the appeal process.

All of the above are common reasons why SSD claims may be denied and a lawyer will help you stay on track.

Final Thoughts

The disability system is confusing and difficult to navigate. Besides that, much of the advice and resources that can be found on the internet are misleading, contradictory, or just flat-out incorrect. A disability lawyer can help you cut through all of this bad information and get you the benefits that you deserve from your disability claim.

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