Should You Have a Social Security Attorney for the Hearing Process?
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by: albert.tobega
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Q: Is it necessary to be represented by a social security attorney when you apply for disability benefits?
A: You do not need to be represented by a lawyer to file for social security disability benefits. Most applicants can submit their application for initial review without any difficulty. You may wish to have a social security attorney, however, if you are concerned about getting paperwork in on time or do not understand the process or requirements for making a claim. A lot of applications are denied after the initial review process. If your claim is submitted in the correct manner, it will assure that it is adjudicated properly. Again, many applicants that do not have a lawyer submit everything on time and without difficulty for the initial review process. Of those claimants who are denied after the first review, many choose to hire a social security attorney for reconsideration and further steps. If your case is denied after reconsideration and you plan to appeal to have it heard before an administrative judge, legal representation would be very beneficial. The majority of claimants who have appealed to have their claim heard before a judge have a lawyer on their side. Going through a hearing will be the final step in determining if you will be approved for disability benefits. A social security attorney has the experience and knowledge to assure that your claim will be fairly and appropriately adjudicated during the hearing process. Most cases that are approved after a hearing have representation.
Q: If you are denied disability benefits after the initial review, should you apply again?
A: It is not recommended that you apply again to have your case initially reviewed. Most initial claims for disability benefits are not approved. Your next step is to file for reconsideration. The deadline for filing to have your case reconsidered is 60 days. If you miss that deadline, you will then have to apply again and go through the initial review process. If your initial claim was denied once, it is likely it will be denied again. Once again, you will need to have your claim reconsidered and submit that appeal within the deadline. If you are denied after your case was reconsidered, you will have to move on to the hearing process. Applying for initial review a second time would have wasted your precious time. It may be helpful to consult with a social security attorney, if you have missed appeals deadlines or are confused about the process.
Q: Are you allowed to apply for disability insurance via the web?
A: Yes, you can apply for social security disability online. Visit the following Social Security link and follow the steps to submit your application with social security: www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability.
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