Social Security Disability Application

The social security application process can, at times, be a lengthy and unpleasant one. Many people do not completely understand the process even as they are moving through it and, unfortunately, this greatly decreases their chances for having a successful claim. There are four different stages of the process and those who make it to the final two stages have a much higher success rate than those who give up their claim after simply progressing through the first two phases.

The Initial SSD Application

The first part in the social security application process is the initial application for disability. This can be filed in the mail, but can also now be done over the phone or the internet. You will, at some point during this initial phase, be required to complete an interview with a representative from the social security administration and be required to see a doctor who will assess how well you are able to work. This doesn't just mean how well you could perform your prior job, but also if you are healthy enough to obtain work in another field as well. This process is a relatively fast one but also, unfortunately, one with a very high failure rate. Most applications are denied at the initial stage. However, to increase your chances, an application with complete and comprehensive medical records does stand a better chance of success.

If Your First Social Security Application Fails

If your first application fails, the next step in the process is called the request for reconsideration. However, this application is examined by the same office that rejected the initial application, so it is not at all uncommon for the request for reconsideration to be rejected again. You have sixty days to complete this next step in the social security application process and it is very important that you file within this deadline. If you do not, you will be forced to start from the first part of the process again and refiling the same complaint has a much higher failure rate. If the request for reconsideration also fails, then it is time to start thinking about retaining an attorney. You are legally allowed to represent yourself but it isn't advisable to do so.

That is simply because the social security application process now progresses to the hearing stage, before an administrative law judge. Because this is a different situation than the previous two steps, you now have the chance to increase your chances for a successful claim. However, people who represent themselves at this stage still have a very high failure rate, but the success rate at the hearing level is much higher amongst those who are represented by a qualified individual. There are many lawyers who specialize in social security disability claims, as well as non-attorney representatives who are also very skilled at getting claims approved. This stage of the process can take a very long time; a six month to two year wait can usually be expected. While this is unfortunate, the time needs to be used to obtain all the supporting medical records documenting the ongoing nature of the claimant’s condition.

Important Social Security Documentation

Any pertinent documentation that proves that this injury or illness has left them unable to work will be needed. This longer track record documenting the condition carefully is part of what gives claims a much higher success rate at this stage of the application process. The final stage of the social security application process is the application before the appeals committee. At this stage, it is essential to have a good lawyer or representative working for you in order to increase your chances for success.

Let Us Help

Do not be discouraged if your claim has been denied. Choose a law firm that handles Social Security Disability appeals. Call or email the Ogletree Abbott Law Firm. We are Social Security Disability lawyers who represent working men and women who have been wrongfully denied benefits. We want for you to have a fair hearing with competent legal representation. Call us today at 1-(800)- 779-4950. Or, if you prefer, email us at Info@Ogletreeabbott.com and we will contact you right away. Let us help you today.