Do I Need To Hire a Social Security Disability Attorney?
When it comes to answering whether or not you actually need an attorney to apply for Social Security Disability benefits, the answer is no, you do not actually need an attorney to apply. However, having an attorney can increase your chances of being approved for benefits. Why? Well, to answer that, let us first talk about the various reasons disability claims are commonly denied and how a disability attorney can help:
Reasons Disability Claims Are Often Denied
If you’ve filed for disability benefits and been denied, you’re not alone. In fact, most initial claims are denied. Here are five common reasons why:
1. Your Medical Condition Isn’t Severe Enough
To qualify for disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. While many conditions can qualify, they must be severe enough to prevent you from working.
2. You Haven’t Seen a Doctor
One of the most important pieces of evidence in a disability claim is medical documentation from a treating physician. If you haven’t seen a doctor or don’t have recent medical records, it will be difficult to prove your case.
3. You Can Still Do Some Type of Work
To be eligible for disability benefits, you must be unable to work in any capacity. If the Social Security Administration (SSA) believes you can still do some type of work, even if it’s not your previous job, your claim will be denied.
4. You Haven’t Followed Your Treatment Plan
If you’re able to work with a treatment plan, your claim is likely to be denied. The SSA will want to see that you’ve tried conservative treatments like medication or physical therapy before they approve benefits.
5. You Have a History of Drug or Alcohol Abuse
Substance abuse is a common reason for disability claims to be denied. If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, you’ll need to prove that you’re currently abstaining and that your substance abuse is not a contributing factor to your disability.
Why Should I Hire a Disability Attorney?
When you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you will be asked to provide medical evidence of your disability. An attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence and present it in the most favorable light. An attorney can also help you navigate the complex Social Security Disability application process.
If your initial application for benefits is denied, an attorney can help you appeal the decision. The appeals process can be complex, and an attorney can increase your chances of success.
In general, you are not required to have an attorney to apply for or appeal a Social Security Disability decision. However, having an attorney can give you a better chance of success!
Conclusion
Are you looking to make a disability claim? If so, we highly recommend hiring a disability attorney to assist you. While they’re not a must-have, they do offer a whole host of benefits that can help you improve your chances of success and ensure that the claim you sought after will give you the means necessary to live normally and comfortably once more.
Avard Law are experts in social security disability, personal injury, and more to help individuals get the compensation they need. If you are looking for social security disability attorneys in Florida, get in touch with us today!