SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LAWYER
The attorneys at DOUD, SMITH & WAGNER understand the impact a denied Social Security Disability claim can have on an individual and their family, especially when these benefits are the applicant’s main source of income. More often than not, applications for Social Security Disability are initially denied; however, an initial denial does not necessarily mean that the applicant is not entitled to benefits.
Unfortunately, applicants who have been rejected may choose to abandon their claims instead of proceeding with an appeal — a process that is undoubtedly intimidating to claimants even in a more typical personal injury case — where they could potentially recover the benefits they are rightfully owed. At DOUD, SMITH & WAGNER, our Social Security attorneys have extensive experience representing individuals in the application and appeals processes, among other practice areas, and have the resources needed to recover the benefits our clients deserve.
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If you’ve been denied social security benefits, here’s something you need to know. The law firm you choose makes a BIG difference.
In fact, DOUD, SMITH & WAGNER wins more than the national average in recovering social security for clients that were denied. That means that when you hire our lawyers, you have a better chance of recovering than with the average lawyer. And that’s a really BIG deal and an absolute fact. Call us now to set up a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll investigate your claim at no charge, and we get paid only if you win.
HOW TO APPLY
Injured workers, such as those that are eligible for workers' compensation, should apply for Social Security Disability benefits as soon they become disabled. You can apply for SSD benefits by scheduling an appointment with a Social Security Administration (SSA) representative or by applying online. The claims representative assigned to your case will answer any questions you may have about the application process.
He or she will also handle the paperwork needed to send your claim to Disability Determination Services (DDS), which will make an initial determination as to whether you are considered disabled under the SSA’s requirements. The claims representative will also determine the disability programs for which you may be eligible, as well as determine benefits you are eligible to receive based on your work history.
We highly encourage applicants to speak with a Social Security disability attorney before beginning the application process. An attorney will be able to explain the process for filing for benefits and gather the documents needed to submit a claim.
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WHY HIRE A LAWYER?
Nearly 60 percent of all first-time applicants are initially denied disability benefits, and close to 90 percent of applicants seek the help of a representative at some point in the process. The process of applying and appealing denied claims is often complicated, and the chances of success are far greater with the help of an experienced Social Security disability attorney.
Retaining a lawyer can increase your chances of approval and help avoid denials based on technicalities or other common errors. Our experienced attorneys can help gather information vital to your claim’s success and ensure you complete the steps necessary for obtaining benefits.
If you hire a Social Security Disability attorney to help with your claim, he or she will guide you through the following process:
Preparation: Preparing your claim, which will include gathering documents and other required information is an essential part of the claims process. An attorney can help gather the documentation needed to substantiate your claim, such as personal information (including information on your children or spouse); military information, if applicable; IRS forms; bank account information; addresses and phone numbers; detailed medical records and referrals; medication history; a list of prior employment history; and information on other disability claims, if applicable.
You will be required to submit extensive documentation to the SSA, and determining which information is required for your claim can be a difficult process. An attorney can help ensure your claim satisfies the SSA’s requirements, which can help expedite the application process. He or she can also assist in gathering documents that you are unable to access on your own.
Communication: An attorney can keep track of the status of your claim, alert you to any requests for new information, and speak with Social Security Administration (SSA) representatives on your behalf to answer questions that may arise regarding your application.
Finalizing a Claim: If your disability claim is approved, your attorney will review the SSA’s calculations to determine if any vital information was missed or if any errors were made. He or she will also address any questions you may have concerning your new benefits.
Appeal: If your application for benefits was not approved, you may be able to file an appeal with an attorney.
