Unfortunately, at some point, many people become disabled. Such a disability can wreak havoc on your life. For one, a disabled person will no longer be able to work as they once did and could lose their entire livelihood. Thankfully, Social Security Disability was created to solve this issue. However, being approved for the program can be quite difficult. Below are some strategies for getting your Social Security Disability benefits approved.
File Your Claim Right Away
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not filing a Social Security Disability claim immediately after becoming disabled. If you wait too long to file, suspicions may arise from whether or not your claim is legitimate. Also you should keep in mind that the process for disability claims can be extremely long and arduous. It’s always better to get the ball rolling earlier so you do not have to wait as long to obtain your benefits. Starting earlier can also help ensure that your claim is filed while your disability insurance is still active.
Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer
Unfortunately, an initial claim for Social Security Disability benefits will often be denied. This is one of the reasons why working with a lawyer with experience with Social Security cases is so important. Appealing such a decision is a technical endeavor, and every little detail regarding how your appeal is filed will matter. The appeal will be overseen by a judge. It’s important to have a lawyer on hand that knows how to deal with administrative law judges to ensure your appeal is successful. Hiring a social security disability lawyer quickly is also necessary since the window for such an appeal will only be 60 days. Make sure you find one as soon as you know you need to apply for social security benefits.
Provide Accurate Proof of Your Disability
A disability claim may end up being denied because the government does not believe you have been honest regarding your medical status. If you, for example, do not provide enough detail regarding your disabilities and the medical treatment you have received for such ailments, there could be justification for the government to be suspicious regarding whether or not your claims are truthful. Instead, try to provide as much detail regarding your medical status and treatments as possible. This should include information like dates, the addresses of medical clinics, the names and contact information of doctors and more. You must also provide proof of recent treatment since continuing to see a doctor once every couple of months is required to remain on disability.
Overall, obtaining Social Security Disability benefits is in no way guaranteed even if your disability is very real. You need to act quickly and follow the process correctly including submitting accurate paperwork on time with the required evidence of your condition. Many claims may be denied and require an appeal. Working with an attorney with experience with such claims can greatly increase your chances of success.