HOW TO GET A DISABILITY ADVOCATE

A disability advocate or lawyer is trained in the fine points of Social Security's disability program. They help a claimant file an application for benefits and handle appeals if the claim is denied.

Getting representation is easy. Here are the usual steps:

1. Choose a local attorney/representative (most people use the internet).

2. Check out the representative's reviews from other clients (internet, too).

3. Call the attorney/representative for a brief telephone consultation.

4. Attend an in-the-office meeting if requested.

5. Sign papers giving the attorney/representative authority to represent you.

6. Your representative will gather certain information from you to obtain your medical records, employment history and other information to file and process a claim.

It is extremely likely that your initial application will be denied. About 75 percent of initial decisions are denials. Then, you will need to enter the appeals process with the help of your representative. Ultimately, your case will probably go before an Administrative Law Judge for a hearing. This is where your legal representative can be of a great help in getting your case approved and paid (often with past due benefits attached).

The best news is, your representative cannot charge you a fee unless you (1) win your case, and (2) collect past due benefits. So, you get paid first and pay your representative on the end. There should be nothing due up-front.

When do you seek representation? For the initial application or for the appeal after you have been denied? It is done both ways. Some attorneys won't file the initial application, preferring to only work on the appeal. Others will do both, file the application and handle the appeals if need be. I prefer to file the application because of two reasons: I can sometimes improve the odds of being approved initially, and I can lay the groundwork for a good appeal. It cost you nothing to have your representative involved early because you always a percentage of back pay. It doesn't matter how long your lawyer or representative worked on the case, the fee is the same if you win and get back pay.

Contact us if you need assistance with an application or appeal....or just need to ask a question. (256) 799-0297 or use the form on the website to contact us.