Applying for Social Security Disability can be a lengthy, strenuous process and it’s important you realize what you can and can not do. You do want to be denied your payments because of one slight mistake. Having a disability makes it difficult to work and even more challenging to maintain financial independence. By utilizing “America’s safety net”, Social Security Disability, as we here at Deputy and Mizell refer to it, you may be able to receive monthly cash benefits during your time of need. However, you must apply, qualify and get approved first before you can receive payments. This is where we come in. Our Social Security Disability lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks can help you apply and be there for you every step of the way. To set up a free consultation, call 573-346-9990. Keep reading for the dos and don’ts of applying for Social Security Disability.
The Dos and Don’ts of Applying for Social Security Disability
Do be prepared when applying for Social Security Disability.
It is extremely important to be prepared before applying for disability. A lot disability claims are denied because the claimant did not fill out the application completely or accurately. Social security adjudicators and Administrative Law Judges give substantial weight to medical records. So before you apply, it is crucial to make a list of all the names and addresses of the medical providers and doctors you have sought treatment from for your disability. Also, make a list of all the prescription medications you take and every place you worked in the last 15 years prior to applying for disability.
Don’t get discouraged if your application isn’t approved the first time.
It is important to remember that approximately only 30 percent of Social Security Disability applications are approved at the first stage. If you are approved, you will begin receiving disability benefits.
Do be patient.
If your initial claim is denied, you have 60 days to file a Request for Reconsideration in which the Social Security Administration will review your application again. This process takes approximately three to six months.
Don’t give up on applying if you aren’t approved the first time.
If your Request for Reconsideration is denied again, you must then appeal and request a disability hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge. This stage of the appeals process can last a year or more. Oftentimes claimants will have to wait approximately two years before they have their hearing. After the hearing, you will either receive a favorable decision, a partially favorable decision, or an unfavorable decision within six months
Do bring your application to the Appeals Council, if you don’t agree with the decision made at the Administration level.
If you do not agree with the Administrative Law Judge’s decision at the hearing level, you have the right to the appeal that decision with the Appeals Council. The review by the Appeals Council usually takes between six months to one year until completion.
Don’t forget to search for back up plans, in case your application is denied once again.
It is important to remember fewer than five percent of Social Security Disability cases are won at the stage of the appeals process.
Need Assistance Applying for Social Security Disability?
Call Deputy and Mizell today for your free consultation. We can be reached at 573-346-9990 or you may visit our website at www.DeputyandMizell.com for more information.
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