PREPARING TO MEET WITH A DISABILITY LAWYER FOR THE FIRST TIME

Disability lawyers and advocates help people through the confusing paper chase of Social Security disability applications and appeals. Basically, they are there to help get you approved as fast as possible and get you the maximum benefits you are entitled to. When preparing for your first consultation (office visit) with an advocate, there are things to bring with you:

1) Name on your Social Security card; SSN, date of birth, contact information for you.

2) Name of another contact person who knows about your disability (spouse, friend, etc.)

3) Job history of full time jobs dating back 15 years, with job titles and job descriptions.

4) List of all your medical impairments

5) Description of how your impairments prevent you from working (pain, dizziness, can't stand/sit/walk, etc.)

6. List of doctors and other medical providers who treat you--with their addresses and phone numbers.

7. List of prescription medications you now take.

8. Current status of your claim: Just got denied (bring the denial letter), Applied but no decision yet; denied and now under Reconsideration; Denied and had a hearing with a judge.

Your lawyer/advocate will ask you questions to find out if you qualify for SSDI, and how's the best way to prepare your case for the best chance to get approved.

It's normal for you to be confused about the way Social Security disability works. Don't hesitate to ask questions. I always save time during the consultation to answer any questions the claimant may have. It might help you to write down a list of questions to ask, so you don't forget.

Rest assured that there is no fee attached to meeting your attorney and finding out about your claim. If you hire the attorney to represent you, he/she will explain the fee and have you sign a contingency fee agreement; however, you will never be charged anything until you win your case and collect past due benefits. No win, no pay.