Expert Tips on Getting a Social Security Disability Claim Approved

Most people who apply for Social Security disability get turned down due to lack of preparation in applying for their claim. The process of applying for benefits is formal. There are certain steps that must be done to be considered. The more information you have on how to properly apply for a claim, the better your chances are of being approved.

Hiring an Attorney

• The best way to ensure that you follow all of the proper procedures is to hire a Social Security attorney. They will know your chances of obtaining a claim when you go in for a consultation, and they can do the work for you. They will charge fees, but Social Security regulates the amount they can charge---the most the attorney will be allowed to charge is 25 percent of your settlement. Aside from the contingency fee (the fee for the lawyer to take your case), they will not charge you if you do not win the case. You will have to sign a few forms to hire a representative on your claim. Most attorneys will not represent you unless you have had the first denial on your claim, so it's best to gather your information and file. If you feel you can do this alone, then there are many places that you can get information on filing.

Improve Your Chances

• There are a few things to keep in mind when applying that will improve your chances. Find out if your physician will support your case. If he will not declare you disabled, then it is unlikely that you can get approved. Social Security will need a copy of your medical records to consider your case. Cooperate with the examiner who is handling your case. Reply promptly to all correspondence and get them the information they need. Be sure to make all deadlines and hire an attorney immediately after getting your first denial.

Updates

• After you file, you can obtain updates on the status of your case by contacting the claims representative that has been assigned to your case (see References). They will ask for your personal identifying information such as Social Security number and birthday. They can look up your file and give you any updates. If you've already hired an attorney, your attorney will usually mail you updates on a regular basis, but you can also check with them to see what they have heard.