Assess Your Eligibility for Disability Benefits

One of the first things a disability lawyer will do is evaluate whether you meet the eligibility requirements for SSDI or SSI. They will review your medical condition, work history, and income to determine the best course of action. If you're unsure whether you qualify, a lawyer will give you an honest assessment of your chances of success.

• SSDI: For SSDI, a lawyer will help assess whether your work history meets the requirements, including how many work credits you have earned.
• SSI: For SSI, a disability lawyer will evaluate your financial situation, ensuring you meet the income and asset limits.

Help Gather and Organize Medical Evidence

The most crucial aspect of any disability claim is medical evidence. A disability lawyer can help you gather, organize, and submit the proper medical documentation that supports your claim. This can include:

• Medical records: Including doctor’s notes, lab results, hospital reports, and prescription histories.
• Medical opinions: Letters or statements from your treating physicians that explain the impact of your condition on your ability to work.
• Additional evidence: If needed, the lawyer can help obtain statements from specialists or vocational experts.

Ensure Your Application Is Complete and Accurate

Filing a Social Security Disability or SSI application involves extensive paperwork, and any mistakes or missing information can result in delays or denials. A disability lawyer will ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time. They will:

• Review the application: Ensure all necessary fields are filled out properly.
• Ensure supporting documents are submitted: This includes medical records, work history, and any other required documents.
• Check for errors: Prevent common mistakes, such as failing to report income or not providing enough medical evidence.

Represent You at a Hearing

If your claim is denied and you are asked to attend a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), a disability lawyer can represent you. They will prepare you for the hearing and present your case to the judge, including:

• Explaining your condition: They will ensure the judge understands how your condition affects your ability to work.
• Cross-examining witnesses: If there are any opposing witnesses, your lawyer can cross-examine them.
• Presenting medical evidence: They will use your medical records and any other relevant evidence to strengthen your case.

Handle Appeals and Follow-ups

If your claim is denied at any stage, a disability lawyer can help you file an appeal. There are several levels of appeal, including:

• Request for reconsideration: If your claim is denied, your lawyer will help you file a request for the SSA to reconsider your case.
• Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge: If reconsideration is denied, your lawyer will help you request and prepare for a hearing.
• Appeals Council: If you lose at the ALJ hearing, a disability lawyer can help you appeal the decision to the SSA’s Appeals Council.

Your lawyer will make sure all deadlines are met, and they will keep track of your case to ensure that everything is moving forward.

Provide Expert Guidance Throughout the Process

A disability lawyer will guide you at every step of the Social Security Disability or SSI process. From filling out the initial application to representing you at hearings, they will ensure that you understand each stage of your claim. They can also advise you on:

• What to expect at each stage.
• How to improve your chances of approval by presenting a strong case.
• The pros and cons of accepting or rejecting any offers made by the SSA.

Increase Your Chances of Success

While it is possible to apply for Social Security Disability benefits without a lawyer, hiring one significantly increases your chances of approval. Studies have shown that individuals who work with a disability lawyer are more likely to win their case or receive a favorable decision. This is because lawyers have a deep understanding of the SSA rules and can ensure your case is presented as effectively as possible.