Getting Social Security disability benefits isn’t always easy. If your claim was denied, you still have options. A Greenville social security disability attorney can help you prepare for your hearing and give you the best chance to win. While you’re allowed to appeal on your own, having a lawyer on your side can make a big difference when you’re unable to work and need benefits to get by.
What to do if your disability claim is denied
If you have submitted an initial application for social security disability and received a denial, you are must file a request for reconsideration within 60 days. If the claim is then denied at the reconsideration stage then you have 60 days to file for a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). These hearings may take place by phone, video conference, or in the Greenville area hearing office located in Mauldin.
This hearing typically consists of speaking with the ALJ and answering the judge’s questions about your medical conditions, including questions about your current ability to work, work history, and daily activities. Many people hurt their case by not providing all of their medical records and by talking about what they can do on a good day. But that doesn’t show how their condition affects them most of the time. It can give the judge the wrong idea and make it seem like they don’t qualify for benefits.
A disability lawyer can help you avoid mistakes and improve your chances of getting approved for benefits. At Smith Jordan, we take the time to understand your case and give you honest, straightforward guidance every step of the way.
How to prepare for your social security disability hearing
Your hearing is your chance to show why you qualify for social security disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) approves some conditions more often, but what matters most is how your condition keeps you from working. To qualify, your condition must last at least 12 months or be expected to be terminal.
You’ll need to show how your health problem makes it hard, or impossible, to work. Your own medical records may be enough, but sometimes the SSA will send you to one of their doctors for an evaluation.
Medical Documentation
Your medical records are one of the most important parts of your case. According to the SSA’s evidentiary requirements, your records should clearly show what’s wrong, what symptoms you have, and what your doctor has found. The SSA might also ask for test results like lab work, X-rays, or scans to back up your claim. Your attorney would know what information is needed.
Keep answers direct and concise
Many people can damage their case when they begin answering questions by providing too much or unnecessary information. As with almost any other court situation, your social security disability attorney would advise how best to truthfully answer questions. Your attorney will advise you what is important to point out in your testimony.
Review your file
Review of your paperwork is crucial to ensure it is correct and up to date. Your attorney would work to make sure everything is ready for your hearing. Doing it on your own could cause you to leave out crucial information needed to prove your case. If your file says one thing and you say something else, the judge might not believe your story.
Utilize other professionals when necessary
There may be times when you need to get support from a variety of professionals to make your case. You may utilize the support of other professionals, including vocational experts, who can discuss how your disability affects your vocational pursuits.
Other considerations for how to win your social security disability hearing
Providing appropriate evidence for your case is integral to securing benefits through social security disability insurance (SSDI), but your presentation may also affect the outcome of your case. The way you talk about your condition matters. An attorney who handles disability cases can best advise you on this. At Smith Jordan, we believe that honesty and preparation go a long way.
Come prepared on the day of your hearing and arrive a few minutes early to ensure you have enough time to settle in. Lastly, make sure that you are listening to and following all instructions provided by your attorney and the administrative law judge.
Working with a disability lawyer may increase your chances of winning
When you work with a disability lawyer from Smith Jordan Law, you gain the benefit of working directly with one of our attorneys. When you come to our office, you can trust that you’ll see the same faces and have access to an attorney. If you are unable to work and need social security disability to make ends meet, we’re here to help.
Our firm offers free consultations, during which you can speak directly with an experienced lawyer. Call us today at 864-343-2222 or go online to schedule your legal consultation.