Understand What a Social Security Advocate Does

Before searching for an advocate, it's important to understand what they do. A Social Security advocate is typically a non-attorney professional who specializes in Social Security cases. Their primary role is to assist individuals with:

• Filing applications for SSD or SSI benefits.
• Gathering necessary medical and financial documentation to support your claim.
• Appealing denied claims and representing you in hearings before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

While an advocate is not a lawyer, they are often experienced in the Social Security process and can provide valuable assistance in ensuring your claim is presented effectively.

Look for Certified Social Security Advocates

Not all advocates are created equal, so it's important to choose one who is certified and knowledgeable about Social Security law. The best way to ensure an advocate has the proper qualifications is to look for those who are accredited by organizations like the National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR) or The Social Security Administration (SSA).

Certified advocates typically have extensive training and experience in handling Social Security Disability claims and are familiar with the intricacies of the application and appeals process.

Use Online Resources to Find an Advocate

There are several online directories and websites that can help you find a Social Security advocate in your area. Here are a few resources you can use to search for advocates:

• Social Security Administration (SSA) Website: The SSA offers a "Find an Advocate" feature where you can search for professionals who are authorized to assist with Social Security claims. Visit the SSA’s official website at www.ssa.gov to explore options.
• National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR): The NADR is an excellent resource for finding certified disability representatives who specialize in Social Security claims. You can search their online directory for advocates by location.
• Disability Determination Services (DDS): Some states have local Disability Determination Services that can offer advice and refer you to certified advocates.

Ask for Recommendations

If you have friends, family, or healthcare providers who have gone through the Social Security application process, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. A personal referral can help you find an advocate who has a proven track record of success and understands the complexities of Social Security cases.

Check Reviews and References

Before hiring a Social Security advocate, take time to research their reputation. Look for online reviews or ask the advocate for references. A reliable advocate should have positive reviews and client testimonials that reflect their expertise in handling Social Security Disability claims. Check their track record:

• How many cases have they handled?
• What percentage of their clients received approvals?
• Do they have experience with cases similar to yours?

By asking these questions, you can better gauge if the advocate is the right fit for your needs.

Consider Their Experience and Specialization

Not all advocates have the same level of experience. Some may focus on SSI claims, while others specialize in SSDI claims or appeals. When looking for an advocate, consider the following factors:

• Experience level: Look for advocates who have experience working on Social Security claims, especially those similar to yours.
• Specialization: Some advocates specialize in specific areas, such as appeals, initial applications, or medical evidence gathering. Choose one whose skills align with the stage of your claim.

Meet with the Advocate for a Consultation

Most Social Security advocates offer a free consultation. During the consultation, you can discuss your case and get a sense of how the advocate works. This is a good opportunity to:

• Ask about their experience with cases like yours.
• Learn about their fees (many advocates work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case).
• See if you feel comfortable working with them and if they explain things in a way you understand.

Check the Advocate’s Fees

It’s important to understand the fee structure before hiring a Social Security advocate. Most advocates work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they receive a percentage of your back pay if you win the case. The SSA caps the fee at 25% of your back pay, up to a maximum of $6,000.

Ensure that you fully understand how the advocate charges and that their fees are within the limits set by the SSA.

Stay Involved and Communicate

Once you’ve found the right Social Security advocate, it’s important to stay involved in the process. Regularly communicate with your advocate to ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted and to stay updated on the progress of your claim.