Q: Is it necessary to be represented by a social security attorney when you apply for disability benefits?
A: It is not required that you have representation when applying for disability with social security. Most applicants can submit their application for initial review without any difficulty. Those individuals who may have difficulty meeting deadlines, gathering appropriate information or are confused about the forms should consider hiring a social security attorney. A fair number of claims are not approved after they go through the first review. By making sure you submit all the required information and forms within deadlines and correctly, your case has the best chance of being reviewed fairly. Again, many applicants that do not have a lawyer submit everything on time and without difficulty for the initial review process. Most experts recommend hiring a social security attorney if your initial claim is not approved and you plan to have it reconsidered. If you plan to go through the hearing process after your claim has been reconsidered and was not approved, it is wise to have a lawyer. 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. The majority of claimants who are awarded disability benefits during a hearing process have been represented by a lawyer.
Q: If you are denied disability benefits after the initial review, should you apply again?
A: Assuming you submitted your application correctly, it is not advisable to start back at step one again. The majority of applications for social security disability are denied after the initial review process. Having your claim reconsidered is the appropriate and most beneficial next step. You must apply for reconsideration within 2 months of notification of denial. If you miss that deadline, you will then have to apply again and go through the initial review process. Most likely, since your claim was not approved after the initial review the first time, it will not be approved the second time. Once again, you will need to have your claim reconsidered and submit that appeal within the deadline. If your claim is not approved after reconsideration, you will need to appeal to have it heard before an administrative judge. By submitting another initial claim, you would have added significant time to your disability claim process. If you have any questions or concerns about meeting deadlines or recommended next steps after your claim was denied, you may wish to contact a social security attorney.
Q: Are you allowed to apply for disability insurance via the web?
A: Submitting your application for disability insurance can be done via the web. Visit the following Social Security link and follow the steps to submit your application with social security: www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability.