Social Security Disability or SSD is used to obtain payments from the federal government when you have a disabling condition that prevents you from working in Tucker. It is an insurance program that you pay into as you work throughout the years.
Then, the amount that you can receive in benefits depends on how much you made while you were working. Although this program was designed with people just like you in mind, it’s much harder than you might think to get these benefits that you deserve. Whether you’re starting the application process or working through an appeal, it’s a good idea to have a Tucker Social Security Disability lawyer helping you with your claim.
John Foy & Associates has helped hundreds of people with their SSD claims over the last 20 years. We understand how frustrating it can be to know that you meet the qualifications, but you’re still denied.
We can help you work through the application or appeal process and increase your chances of getting benefits. Let us give you a free consultation so you can learn more. Call us at 404-400-4000 and get your free consultation today.
How Can an SSD Lawyer Help Me? Shouldn’t I do This on My Own?
You absolutely can apply for Social Security Disability benefits on your own. You can even work through the appeal process on your own too. But, you significantly increase your chances of getting benefits if you get an experienced attorney involved in the process. Although Social
Security was designed for you, it’s really difficult to navigate the application process and even more challenging to work through an appeal. Having someone who knows the qualifications and the procedure for these matters can be an invaluable resource.
Many people make the mistake of thinking that SSD benefits are just like every other application process. Think about it: thousands of people apply for Social Security Disability every day. Many applications have to be virtually automatically denied simply to get through that much paperwork.
Unfortunately, roughly two-thirds of people will fall into that “auto-deny” category. While not everyone is rejected at the first level, it’s extremely common. Having a lawyer help you with your application or work through your appeal increases the likelihood that you won’t have to go through the initial application process more than once.
Your attorney can help you by:
- Examining your situation to be sure you qualify
- Predicting how much in benefits you can get
- Gathering medical records and information to include with your application or appeal
- Preparing and file paperwork
- Requesting additional information from doctors or other healthcare professionals
- Helping you work through the procedural requirements of applying
Many times, it’s hard for Tucker residents who have disabilities that warrant SSD benefits to work through these tasks on their own. Having an attorney do this for you will also save you time, effort, and headaches.
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Why Are SSD Benefits Denied?
There are many reasons that an application for Social Security Disability benefits might be denied. But, some of the main rationales behind denial fall into a few categories, including the following.
1. There Isn’t Enough Medical Evidence
Part of the application process involves showing the reviewers the severity of your condition. You can’t just list out your diagnosis in most situations.
You have to include medical records that really spell out your health status and how your condition affects you. Your medical records should explicitly state how your medical situation has changed your ability to work. Keep in mind that even if the Social Security Administration office sends you to see a doctor, that evidence alone may not be enough to support your claim. You often need to do some of your own background work to include with your application.
2. You Submit Another Application without Going Through the Appeal Process
If you have already been denied Social Security benefits, it’s more likely that you will be rejected again if you submit another application. It’s no secret that the appeal process is complicated and intimidating, but you’re more likely to get benefits if you appeal than if you start your application over again. Some reviewers will automatically deny a claim when they see that you have applied for SSD benefit previously and were denied.
3. You Are Not Following Recommended Treatment Plans
When your doctor recommends that you go through treatment or get follow up care—do it! If your medical records indicate that you can be taking care of yourself better or you are not getting care that could decrease your symptoms, that can lower your chances of getting benefits.
The reviewer may think that your medical condition wouldn’t be as bad if you followed your doctor’s orders. They won’t be able to accurately determine whether you could work if you were following recommended treatment.
What Are the Basic Qualifications for Getting Social Security Disability Benefits?
The qualifications for SSD benefits are extensive. But, they can generally be lumped into a couple of overarching categories:
- Work credits. SSD is an insurance program. That means that you have to pay in to get anything out of it in most circumstances. You have to have at least 40 work credits, and you can earn four work credits each year. That generally means that you have to have worked (and made enough credits each year) for at least 10 years.
- You must meet a precise definition of disability. This generally means that you cannot work in the same job is before, you are unable to adjust to other kinds of work, and your medical condition is expected to last at least one year.
The Social Security Administration has a “book” of medical conditions that will usually qualify for benefits, but the diagnosis alone is often not enough. You must also meet the severity requirements too. Based on these qualifications, it’s easy to see why so many people get denied immediately when they apply.
Talk to a Tucker Social Security Disability Lawyer
You don’t have to go through the application or appeal process on your own. They have experienced professionals reviewing your claim, and you should have someone who knows the ropes too. Give John Foy & Associates a call. Let us give you a FREE consultation.
Call us at 404-400-4000 or fill out the form to your right and get your FREE consultation today.
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