Q: Do you have to have a social security attorney to file for disability?
A: You do not need to be represented by a lawyer to file for social security disability benefits. A fair number of claimants apply on their own and make it through the initial review process without trouble. You may wish to have a social security attorney, however, if you are concerned about getting paperwork in on time or do not understand the process or requirements for making a claim. A fair number of claims are not approved after they go through the first review. By making sure you submit all the required information and forms within deadlines and correctly, your case has the best chance of being reviewed fairly. Again, many applicants that do not have a lawyer submit everything on time and without difficulty for the initial review process. Of those claimants who are denied after the first review, many choose to hire a social security attorney for reconsideration and further steps. If your case is denied after reconsideration and you plan to appeal to have it heard before an administrative judge, legal representation would be very beneficial. The majority of claimants who have appealed to have their claim heard before a judge have a lawyer on their side. A hearing is your last chance to have your case considered. A social security attorney has the experience and knowledge to assure that your claim will be fairly and appropriately adjudicated during the hearing process. The majority of claimants who are awarded disability benefits during a hearing process have been represented by a lawyer.
Q: If you are denied disability benefits after the initial review, should you apply again?
A: Assuming you submitted your application correctly, it is not advisable to start back at step one again. Most initial claims for disability benefits are not approved. Having your claim reconsidered is the appropriate and most beneficial next step. You must apply for reconsideration within 2 months of notification of denial. If you miss that deadline, you will then have to apply again and go through the initial review process. If your initial claim was denied once, it is likely it will be denied again. You will then be back where you started and have to file for reconsideration within the 60 days. If you are denied after your case was reconsidered, you will have to move on to the hearing process. Applying for initial review a second time would have wasted your precious time. It may be helpful to consult with a social security attorney, if you have missed appeals deadlines or are confused about the process.
Q: Can you submit an application for social security disability online?
A: Submitting your application for disability insurance can be done via the web. Visit the following Social Security link and follow the steps to submit your application with social security: www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability.