Social Security Disability Insurance is a program that provides benefits for workers who are no longer able to work due to long-term disability. Once an applicant has been approved and starts receiving benefits, the system can be a life-saver for people who are not able to earn an income due to injury, illness or long-term conditions.
Unfortunately, most people who are applying for Social Security Disability find there are many, many obstacles they must overcome before they get to the point where they are receiving adequate benefits. Sometimes, just gathering all the necessary documentation, filling out the paperwork and corresponding with the Social Security Administration can feel like a full-time job in itself.
Beyond those headaches, there are more serious hurdles. Most applications are rejected the first time around. Applicants typically need to try again with a second application, and may need to argue their case in hearings and even in appeals. None of this is easy, even for a legal professional in good health. For a non-lawyer who is suffering from illness or injury, it can be impossible.
An attorney with experience in Social Security Disability law can help applicants at many points in the process. A lawyer can help increase a clients’ chances of getting approved the first time around by advising clients on how to fill out paperwork and gather documentation for an initial application. If necessary, the lawyer can represent clients at hearings and appeals.
The Social Security Administration has a robust system for representatives to speak for the applicant during the process. A good lawyer will work diligently on behalf of a client and keep them abreast of new developments in their case.