Should You Meet with Social Security Attorney Prior to Initial Application Interview?
05/14/09
Q: What does the application interview for social security disability benefits entail?
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. If you have a social security attorney, he or she will help you prepare for that interview. If you do not have a social security attorney, then you will want to make sure you are prepared. Some sort of photo identification, like a drivers license or passport, is required. 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. Provide a DD Form 214, if you were part of the armed services. Sometimes, your time in the military can increase the amount of benefits. After the disability case manager has confirmed your personal details, he will move on to the details of your case. Make sure you bring copies of your medical records and treatments for your current injury. Have a list of your doctors. Finally, provide supporting documentation and details about your employment for at least the past decade. Of particular interest will be wages and average number of weekly work hours. Assure you consult with your social security attorney, if applicable, before you go to that first meeting with Social Security. If you do not plan to hire a social security attorney, then just make sure you have all the supporting documentation necessary to complete that initial interview. By assuring you have all the required documents, you can decrease the chances that your application will be delayed.
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. If you do not file within that timeframe, you will likely have to begin the application process from step one again. 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 biggest mistake made when a claimant is denied social security disability benefits and files an appeal?
A: The major snare for disability benefits appeals is to miss deadlines. All reconsideration paperwork must be submitted within 60 days of the date of denial of the application. The expertise and experience offered by a social security attorney can be invaluable, if you are confused about appealing your claim.