When a condition impacts your ability to work, you might turn to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for much-needed help. Most people think this involves little more than filling out some paperwork. After all, you’ve been paying into Social Security your entire working life. It shouldn’t be too difficult to claim the benefits to which you’re entitled.
The unfortunate fact is that the process for receiving disability benefits can be long and complicated. Many people will send in their initial application on their own, only to find that their claim has been denied. It’s only at this point that they will consider turning to a lawyer for help.
An attorney can help you put together a strong claim
It’s best if you get an attorney on your side in the early stages of your case. When you apply for benefits, you will have to provide information regarding your daily activities and work history. People often fail to account for their daily activities in detail. They might simply put down “clean the kitchen.” They usually don’t say that they start to clean the kitchen, then take a 45-minute break after 10 minutes because their condition doesn’t enable them to go on for any longer than short bursts of time. A lawyer can help ensure your benefits application is sufficiently detailed.
Another area where an attorney can be useful is gathering your relevant medical records. You will want to show ample evidence of your disability. The most effective way of doing so is by providing medical support. An attorney will know how to request the records you need and ensure that they are included with your application.
An initial denial is not the last word
You have the right to appeal a denied claim. Even if an attorney didn’t help you with your initial application, you can still get legal help with your appeal. You should know that you are not responsible for legal fees unless your lawyer successfully recovers benefits on your behalf.