People who apply for Social Security disability benefits often don’t understand what it takes to get their applications approved. The Social Security Administration’s strict rules and regulations regarding eligibility for disability benefits are complicated and difficult to understand. In fact, the majority of applicants get their initial request for benefits denied. If you exercise the right to appeal an unfavorable decision, you’ll have another opportunity to request the disability benefits you need. An experienced Chicago Social Security disability lawyer knows how the disability evaluation process works and can help you achieve a desirable outcome.
Chicago Social Security Disability Attorney on How to Apply for Benefits
There are several ways to fill out a Social Security disability application. You can complete the application online at the Social Security Administration’s official website and submit it electronically. Another option is to call the toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 and set up a telephone appointment with a claims representative. It’s also possible to call and schedule an appointment at the local Social Security office.
During the appointment, the claims representative will ask you several questions and list your answers in the application. Then, the claims representative will give you the documents so that you can make sure the information is accurate prior to signing the paperwork. A Chicago Social Security disability attorney can file the application for you but isn’t permitted to sign the application on your behalf unless appointed to do so by a court of law.
Evaluation of the Social Security Disability Application
The evaluation of the disability application and first stage of an appeal – known as a reconsideration – isn’t handled directly by the Social Security Administration. A state government agency that has a contract with the Social Security Administration is appointed to evaluate the disability applications and the claims that are being reconsidered. The Social Security Administration adopts the decision made by a claims examiner or medical doctor working for the state government agency.
Chicago Social Security Disability Lawyer Explains the Appellate Process
When you receive a notice of decision that states your request for disability benefits wasn’t approved, you can file a Request for Reconsideration. When your claim is reconsidered, someone who hasn’t previously reviewed your claim will evaluate all of the evidence to determine if the initial decision was correct. If you are still denied benefits after a reconsideration and disagree with the decision, you can file a Request for Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge.
During the appellate process, a Chicago Social Security disability lawyer persuasively presents written arguments and documents that support your claim. The severity of your medical condition and the inability to work will be communicated in an effective manner. A legal advocate ensures that you are properly prepared to handle every aspect of the proceedings.
Contact a Chicago Social Security Disability Lawyer
If you suffer from a disability and want to apply for Social Security benefits, it may be very difficult to get favorable results without legal assistance. A knowledgeable Chicago Social Security disability lawyer can provide valuable information and guide you through the application process. Call Chicago Disability Law today to schedule a confidential consultation.
