If you have become too sick or injured to work at your job any longer, you may be eligible for Social Security benefits. This valuable benefit is for people who meet certain stringent criteria, and the sooner you apply, the sooner you can begin receiving benefits. The application process can be long and confusing, and sometimes your application is denied. If you feel you deserve benefits, don't be discouraged by this denial; you have the right to file for an appeal. The appeals process could be your last chance for benefits, so it's important to have good guidance during this time. Read on to learn how a Social Security attorney could assist you in getting you the benefits that you need and deserve.
Ensure that you don't miss the deadline for filing a hearing request.
Once you have been turned down for benefits, the letter you receive from the Social Security Administration will inform you of your rights to appeal and give you a deadline for filing the appeal. The timeline for the appeal is very short: only 60 days. If you miss this deadline, you may have to begin the arduous and lengthy application process all over again. Having an attorney on board as soon as possible will ensure that this important deadline is not missed and that you are fully prepared to explain why you deserve benefits to the hearing officer.
Ensure that your medical records are complete.
Nothing tells the story of your disability like your medical records, and an incomplete set of records can cause your claim to be denied. It can take time to get records from medical facilities, and knowing what you need can be confusing. Social Security lawyers are very familiar with exactly what is needed for your hearing and the most expeditious manner to obtain those records.
Represent you at the hearing.
It may not seem fair or just, but people who retain Social Security attorneys fair far better at having their claim approved than those who "go it alone." Statistics bear this phenomenon out—claimants that have legal representation have their claims approved at these hearings about 63.6% of the time, and those who do not have such representation will have their claims approved at a much lower rate of 40.1%. This reason alone should be enough for most claimants to consider having a lawyer by their side for the appeal hearing.
Speak with a Social Security attorney for more information or visit a website like http://www.johnehornattorney.com.
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