Can an Attorney Appeal a Social Security Claim Denial?
For those who have limited income, are aging, or have a medical condition that makes it impossible to work, it makes sense to file for Social Security Disability. While you may be entitled to collect these benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is likely to deny your claim.
In fact, denied disability claims by the SSA are 67%, meaning that the odds are not in your favor, even if you have all the requirements set by the law. However, since this process is legal, you have the right to hire an attorney to represent you.
Most people applying for Social Security Disability benefits do so on their own before discovering that the SSA has denied their claims. If that has happened to you, it’s frustrating to start all over again. Even worse, time is now a factor when it comes to making an appeal.
How a Social Security Disability Attorney Can Help You Appeal a Claim Denial
Once you’ve been denied your claim, it’s time to seek out a Long Beach Social Security Disability attorney to help you gather all relevant information. This includes your medical records and other evidence to support your case.
Additionally, your attorney will make sure that the deadlines imposed by the SSA are met in a timely fashion. A lawyer can review your case details and compare them with the SSA regulations. They may even suggest the SSA send you to a doctor of their choosing to verify your claims.
Even if you initially filed your claim, it’s wise to hire an attorney if you’ve been denied. You will have a better chance of success in your case since a lawyer will know all the particulars of Social Security rules and regulations. With your lawyer, your prior application can be reopened, and you can secure the right to a fair appeal hearing in front of an administrative judge.
During the appeal hearing, the SSA will hire a vocational expert to testify and give their opinion about your ability to work after reviewing any mental or physical impairments. An attorney representing you can suggest changes or make legal objections on your behalf. Your lawyer can also request that you receive another medical opinion. Most regular people are unaware of how to handle a hearing like this, but a Social Security lawyer knows what to expect and how to navigate this process.
If your lawyer is able to help you win your case, they can also ensure your monthly benefit amount is properly calculated. If your claim is denied again, your attorney can take your case to the Appeals Council. Even if things do not go as planned at that point, you can still take it to Federal Court for a final appeal.
The SSA hopes you’ll give up when your claim is denied. With a lawyer, you have the best chance of winning the money you deserve for your disability.