If you have a disability that prevents you from working, you may want to apply for social security benefits. Unfortunately, this is a challenging process to navigate alone. But hiring an attorney who specializes in disability claims makes this less complicated. Keep in mind that just because you have a disability does not mean you are automatically approved for benefits. You need to provide the Social Security Administration or SSA medical and vocational evidence to support your claim. Collecting this evidence by yourself is almost impossible, given your condition. You should click here to know more about the requirements that must be met to be awarded disability benefits.
Why Hire a Disability Lawyer
While hiring an attorney is not a legal requirement, it’s to your benefit to have legal representation who can inform you of your rights and how to protect them. Disability lawyers have knowledgeable staff that will make sure vital information is included in your social security file. They are serious about meeting deadlines and avoiding delays. Your attorney will keep in touch with your doctor to secure related medical records and give them questionnaires that facilitate a positive outcome. If you must appear at a hearing, your lawyer will prepare legal briefs and be with you as you present your case.
The Cost of Hiring a Disability Lawyer
Disability attorneys work on a contingency basis. Thus, you do not pay them fees unless you can secure disability benefits. When the SSA approves your claim, it will calculate the amount it has to pay in past-due benefits. It will withhold 25 percent of these benefits and pay your attorney directly. From the day your claim is approved, none of the benefits you are owed goes toward legal fees. Thus, you can hire an attorney even if you don’t have money at the time. Once your claim is approved, the SSA will provide you with the full benefit amount you deserve.
Usually, social security disability claims take a long time to be approved. If you think you cannot work for at least twelve months, you must apply right away. Don’t let the claims process overwhelm you. Call a lawyer as soon as possible for a free consultation. A lawyer is familiar with applicable laws and can help you navigate the challenges that can arise in workers’ compensation claims. They can address your questions on the kinds of compensation you can seek and explain how you can approach the claim together.
