How a Disability Lawyer Can Help You Secure Benefits

Did you know that in 2024, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics approximates that 13% of the U.S. population had a disability?

Disability is a physical or mental condition that limits a person’s movements, senses, and activities. Disability has a significant impact on one’s life, limiting opportunities, reducing social participation, and disrupting daily activities.

If you are disabled, you must understand the process of applying for disability benefits. Gastonia disability lawyer David Gantt says hiring an attorney with expertise in social security disability benefits can increase the likelihood of a successful application. The legal support that an attorney provides can help those who have been initially denied benefits.

This article will look at the application process for disability benefits and how to reduce the risk of denial.

Understanding the Application Process

If you are interested in applying for disability benefits, you need to understand the different types of benefits available and the eligibility requirements.

Verify if your application qualifies for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

You may check the format of the application online, by phone, or in person. 

See to it that you fill out the application accurately. Incorrect information can lead to unnecessary delays for your case.

If your petition is denied, you are entitled to file an appeal. Keep all records ready and organized, as you might need them when filing an appeal.

According to The Sumwalt Group, you can seek legal assistance from a disability lawyer if you want to speed up your benefits.

These legal professionals can leverage their expertise and knowledge in the social security disability benefits to secure a favorable outcome for your case. 

Gathering the Necessary Documentation

To demonstrate the severity of your disability, you must have documents such as medical records that show the disability, diagnoses, treatments, and the opinions of your healthcare providers available.

Aside from medical records, you should collect the necessary work documents, like pay stubs and job descriptions, to help establish how much your disability affects your job performance. 

Witness’ statements are important to understanding your condition and its impact on your daily life. These testimonies will help your attorney establish arguments for your case.

Filing an Appeal 

Appealing a denial can increase your chances of getting your benefits. If your claim is denied, you can let an attorney handle the process.

Investing in a legal professional can alleviate the stress and anxiety that often comes with filing an appeal.

Lawyers who handle appeals will perform a thorough examination of your case by collecting relevant information and devising suitable strategies to justify your appeal. 

Disability lawyers are prepared to represent you before an administrative law judge. Skilled legal representation improves your chances of reversing the denial and receiving the benefits you deserve.

Avoid missing these hearings so you can explain your situation and explain why you are applying for benefits.

Maximizing Your Benefits

Developing a plan of action is necessary if you want to maximize your disability benefits.

To maximize your benefits, collect all medical records that support your conditions. These documents are important to prove the severity of the condition. 

Working with a disability lawyer can help you understand the finer details of all the programs for which you may apply. Your lawyer will explain all of your options and advise you on the best course of action.

Having a lawyer by your side prevents you from missing important deadlines that can influence the outcome of your case.

Your eligibility may be affected by whether or not you met a deadline. Keep a record of all communications and correspondence related to your disability benefits claim. 

Being proactive and presenting your arguments in a professional manner can boost your chances of receiving positive results.

Ongoing Support and Guidance

After you have filed an application for your disability claim, you need the ongoing support and direction of your disability lawyer to handle the complexities of the application or appeals process. 

Lawyers are prepared to deal with common application issues like incorrect and incomplete documentation, unmet requirements, and missed deadlines.

Disability lawyers will regularly update you about changes in laws or policy that can affect your application or benefits. They will provide case updates that allow you to track the progress of your application.

Hiring a disability lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery and other important matters while they handle all the legal aspects of your case.