According to the Social Security Administration, 9 out of 10 claimants have legal representation by the time they reach their first Social Security Disability hearing. SSDI is a long and difficult process, taking sometimes more than a year before a claimant reaches their first hearing. The SSA allows anyone to represent a claimant, including those without a legal background. However, problems may arise when the claimant has legal questions that cannot be answered by a representative without a legal background.
When is it time for you to hire a Social Security Disability attorney? Ideally, an attorney would like to represent you in your Social Security Disability Insurance claim from the initial application. The big benefit in having an attorney help you file is that he or she will make sure that all paperwork is filled out correctly. The Social Security Administration reports that many applicants experience unnecessary delays due to errors in paperwork or denial based on errors on initial claims. An attorney fills out the paperwork and submits supporting evidence to show that you are indeed disabled and qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
Some claimants run into problems when the Social Security Administration denies their initial application for Social Security Disability benefits. The news is tough to handle, but a representative can answer questions and take the next appropriate step. For example, you would not re-apply after your application has been denied. Instead, you would take the appropriate step to file for reconsideration, also called an appeal. A request for a hearing is submitted if your claim for reconsideration is denied.
