Social Security Benefits: DON’T GIVE UP

MOST PEOPLE ARE DENIED AT THE FIRST STEP

Over 50% of the people who apply for Social Security Disability (SSDI) or for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are turned down at the first state.

However, at the final stage, the administrative hearing, 90% are approved for benefits when they are represented by an attorney.

PEOPLE HAVE A BETTER CHANCE OF WINNING WHEN REPRESENTED BY AN ATTORNEY

An attorney can help gather evidence at every stage of the process, but is especially helpful at the third stage, the administrative hearing. An attorney can help prepare the applicant and his or her witnesses to give the needed testimony to the administrative law judge.

DOCTORS NEED TO BE ASKED THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

A lot of doctors have never dealt with Social Security and are unfamiliar with the requirements and regulations. However, if they are asked the right questions, they can prepare the necessary reports to give the Social Security Administration the relevant information to show that the applicant can no longer work.

AT THE ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING FAMILY AND FRIENDS CAN GIVE INFORMATION

Medical information must prove a severe impairment exists. Plus, how the illness or injury affects the person's ability to function day-to-day, and in the work place, is very relevant. That's why the first-hand observations of family members and friends of the claimant are very helpful. Both the claimant and these lay witnesses can testify at the administrative hearing.