Serious and permanent medical conditions may make you unable to hold a job. To ensure your bills are paid, you might need to apply for Social Security disability benefits. However, the process can be overwhelming, especially if you are not feeling your best. This is the reason you need to hire an attorney to handle the case for you. Keep reading to learn more about how a disability attorney can help you:
Determining Eligibility
Disabled workers can get Social Security disability benefits. When approved, such benefits include Medicare coverage and cash assistance. To qualify for such benefits, you should have serious medical disabilities and functional limitations that prevent you from going to work for at least 12 months. Also, you need to have enough work credits to be eligible. You need to consult with a lawyer to determine the benefits you can apply for, especially if you do not qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
Applying for Benefits
The first step is to fill out the required application forms. Although you may think you can do this on your own, you could make mistakes that could cost you the benefits you need. Keep in mind that just because you are sick does not automatically mean you are qualified to get benefits. Indeed, applications can be denied outright.
Social Security disability attorneys can help you gather the proper documentation and evidence, fill out forms accurately and correctly, as well as present your case. The SSA will look into the evidence you present closely and a great attorney can give documentation that can strengthen your claim.
Appealing a Denial
The majority of disability applications are denied on the first attempt. If your application gets denied, you have the right to appeal it within 60 days. In this case, you need the assistance of an attorney because this might be your last chance to get the disability benefits you are entitled to.
Often, claims are denied because of simple errors and misunderstandings. The SSA will examine your work history, functional limitations, and medical conditions. If you are suffering from a cognitive impairment or in serious pain, you can easily make mistakes. Your attorney will make sure you do not leave any item on the form blank. And because they can fill out the form for you, errors are less likely to be made. Your attorney has your best interest in mind and makes sure you face the reality of your disability without worrying about its financial implications.
