Should You Meet with Social Security Attorney Prior to Initial Application Interview?
11/18/09
Q: What happens at the first interview after you apply for disability through social security?
A: Your disability application interview will be set up shortly after you submit your application for social security disability. This interview is the starting point for your case manager to gather pertinent information regarding your injury or condition and your work status. Your social security attorney will make sure you have all the applicable information and documentation for that first meeting with social security. If you do not have a social security attorney, then you will want to make sure you are prepared. Bring a picture ID. You will have to answer some questions regarding your identity, if you do not currently possess a picture identification card. Make sure you have a certified proof of birth document. If you are married, bring your marriage certificate. If you have children, have supporting documents that confirm their status as your dependents. If you served in the military, bring your separation documents. Years of service can often positively affect your benefit payments. After the disability case manager has confirmed your personal details, he will move on to the details of your case. Be prepared with supporting documentation about your medical condition. Have a list of your doctors. Lastly, come prepared with background on the past 15 years of your work history. Hours worked and salary should be included. Assure you consult with your social security attorney, if applicable, before you go to that first meeting with Social Security. Having a social security attorney is not required for any part of the disability application process, but you will want to assure you come prepared to the first meeting. You can increase the likelihood that your case will be processed in a timely manner, if you make sure you have provided all the necessary information.
Q: What is the next step, if you are not approved for disability benefits through social security?
A: The next step after a claim for social security disability benefits is not approved is to make a request for reconsideration. You will need to file to have your claim reconsidered within 2 months of when your initial claim was denied. By failing to meet that deadline, you will probably have to file a brand new claim and start all over. You do not necessarily need a social security attorney, but having such an advocate can be helpful during reconsideration. Most claims for social security disability benefits are not awarded until after the next step, which is a hearing. It is recommended that you have representation of a social security attorney during the hearing process. A claim must first be reconsidered before an appeal for a hearing is made.
Q: What is the major pitfall when filing an appeal for a disability claim?
A: The biggest mistake is to wait too long to file an appeal. All forms to have a case reconsidered must be received no later than 2 months after the initial claim was denied. The expertise and experience offered by a social security attorney can be invaluable, if you are confused about appealing your claim.
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