Social Security Disability

I just got off the phone with a potential new client who was seeking disability benefits. This client made some common mistakes Social Security Disability candidates often make. Keep in mind, these people I refer to are truly disabled and entitled to benefits. However, certain actions or inactions often result in a denial or at least a delay in benefits. This prompted me to create the following list of guidelines that should be considered when disabled:

1. If denied after your initial application is filed, APPEAL, do not give up. Your appeal must be filed within 60 days. All too often, I receive a phone call after the time to appeal has expired.

2. Make sure you treat with a physician as often as necessary. Your case is based primarily on your medical records. Even if you do not have insurance, try to seek out a free clinic or even the ER if need be.

3. Apply for benefits as soon as you become disabled. In order to be eligible for Social Security Disability, as opposed to SSI, you must have worked 20 of the last 40 quarters. So, if you stop working, you only have a certain about of time in which you qualify.

4. Let you representative know about ALL of your disabilities. Often, people fail to disclose certain disabilities because of embarrassment. Please try to keep in mind that your lawyer and the judge have heard it all. It would be a shame to lose your case because you failed to disclose everything.

5. Do not go to a Social Security Disability hearing without representation. Social Security representatives are knowledgeable about the Social Security Disability rules; consequently they are able to present the facts of your disability claim in a manner that is most favorable to you. At Gordon & Doner, our a fee is contingent on obtaining you benefits. So, everyone can afford representation.

While this list is not exhaustive, it is certainly a good starting point. If you have any questions, or would like the assistance of a Social Security Lawyer, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at AWerner@fortheinjured.com.