The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides financial assistance to workers with disabilities and other vulnerable individuals who need additional help. According to the SSA, its core mission is to help “maintain the basic well-being and protection of the people we serve.” To this end, the SSA’s Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program “provides monthly payments to people who have a disability that stops or limits their ability to work.” As long as an applicant has enough of a work history and a qualifying disability or blindness, they may file for SSDI benefits to access this form of financial assistance. While the SSDI application can be filed online, several questions can arise as you complete the forms. Moreover, it’s important to recognize that many first-time applications for SSDI benefits are denied, for any number of reasons. Receiving a Social Security disability denial can be discouraging and frustrating, especially if you are unsure of how to respond to this disappointing denial. That’s why enlisting the guidance and assistance of a highly qualified and caring Michigan SSDI attorney is highly recommended to ensure that you have the information you need to proceed with confidence.
Although you are not required to hire an attorney to complete and file an SSDI application, there are many advantages to doing so. With a trusted and experienced Social Security benefits lawyer by your side, you can increase the likelihood of filing a successful application on your first try. Should the claim be denied, your attorney can help you understand the SSDI appeals process and your options for resubmitting your application to receive the benefits you need. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key benefits of working with a knowledgeable SSDI attorney who can support you in your request for the financial assistance you deserve.
Navigating the SSDI Application Process in Michigan
First, it’s helpful to understand why many initial SSDI applications are denied. Applications that lack sufficient medical evidence will likely be denied because there is not enough documentation that shows how the disability or condition prevents the applicant from working. In other cases, an applicant who continues to work and exceeds the income threshold will likely have their SSDI claim denied, as these benefits are reserved for individuals whose disabilities prevent them from working. Applicants who do not follow the treatment recommendations of their doctors may also struggle to have their SSDI application approved, since the SSA examiner could argue that the applicant is not taking their disability seriously or following through with their treatment plan. Seeking the guidance of a trusted and experienced Michigan SSDI attorney can help you avoid these types of mistakes when completing your application and further into the claim process.
Gathering Strong Medical Evidence to Support Your SSDI Application
Another benefit of working with a skilled and caring SSDI lawyer is being able to discuss the importance of clear and substantial medical proof. Your attorney knows how to work with doctors and medical providers to obtain the records necessary to support your SSDI application. For instance, an experienced SSDI attorney can help you gather documents from hospital stays, medication histories, and other medical records that establish the severity of the disability. Moreover, they communicate with medical professionals to help get an evaluation or statement that could help you win your claim..
Handling the SSDI Appeals Process
If your initial SSDI application is denied, it’s natural to feel disheartened and discouraged. However, hiring a disability lawyer is often advantageous, as their expertise can guide you through the appeals process with greater clarity and confidence. The SSDI appeals process has several stages, from filing a request for reconsideration, to requesting a hearing, to taking the matter before the Appeals Council (and beyond, if necessary). The prospect of filing an appeal can be intimidating and stressful for an individual who simply wants to access the SSDI benefits they need, so having a dedicated and compassionate legal advocate in your corner can give you the encouragement you need to move forward.
Representation at a Disability Hearing
Should your SSDI claim proceed to a hearing, it’s natural to feel somewhat intimidated by this formal event. It’s highly encouraged that you seek the support of a trusted and experienced Michigan Social Security disability lawyer to move through this process with you. Your attorney can help you prepare for the hearing so that you can know what to expect during the process. Additionally, your attorney can develop a strategic plan for presenting compelling medical evidence to the judge that supports your request for the benefits, and can identify ahead of time issues that could be detrimental to your claim. Most importantly, knowing that you have a caring legal advocate in your corner can ease your anxiety and reassure you that you and your best interests are in good, capable hands.
Maximizing Benefits and Avoiding Pitfalls
Another advantage to seeking legal counsel to assist you with an SSDI application or appeal is that your attorney knows how to present a clear and compelling case to secure you the financial assistance you need. These experienced legal professionals understand how to build a strong case to ensure that you receive the full benefits to which you are entitled. Moreover, a skilled SSDI lawyer knows how to prevent and avoid mistakes that could lead to denials or other unwanted outcomes.
FAQs About SSDI Applications in Michigan
If you are looking for SSDI application help to improve your chances of receiving a successful outcome, consider enlisting the guidance of a highly qualified Michigan SSDI attorney. Together, you can address common questions about the process, such as the ones presented below.
Do I Really Need a Lawyer to Apply for SSDI?
While not required, working with an attorney could significantly increase your chance of approval.
How Much Does an SSDI Lawyer Cost?
Many SSDI attorneys work on contingency, which means they take a percentage of pay only if you win. For more specific information, reach out to an SSDI law form to get started.
When Should I Hire a Disability Lawyer?
It’s best to hire an attorney before you file your SSDI application to improve your chances of approval. However, you can also hire a lawyer to help you respond to an SSDI denial or at any point during the claim process.
If you are interested in learning more about the SSDI application process in Michigan or if your SSDI application has been denied and you are wondering what steps you can take, reach out to the dedicated legal team at Warren & Schairbaum, PLLC. We’re committed to listening to your concerns and helping you identify the most strategic path forward to help you secure your desired outcome. Please call our Ann Arbor office today at (734) 769-9300 to get started.
