According to the US census bureau, there are over 37 million physically impaired Americans. This represents approximately 12% of the total population. Fortunately, with the social security disability program, this group of people receives the financial backing that they require to stay afloat. Unfortunately, not all disability claims are accepted, which is quite devastating as the applicants get financially crippled as well. Studies, however, show that those who hire a social security disability attorney stand higher chances of getting their claims approved. To help you choose the best attorney for your representation, we’ve highlighted some of the factors you need to consider, as well as some of the factors that cause a disability claim to be rejected
When the Disability Is Temporary
The SSA expects the condition to last at least twelve months or result to death for one to qualify for benefits. Temporary impairments such as a broken leg which only last for a few months are usually considered not disabling to your career, and as such will easily be rejected. The SSA usually considers an application based on the work history of a person. One is required to have worked for a certain period to earn social security disability credits. The SSA usually calculates these credits based on the age of the applicant; period worked and the time when one became disabled. For one to qualify, they should have worked for at least 1.5 years.
Lack of Medical Documentation To Support The Claim
For a disability to be valid, the applicant has to present medical paperwork to prove their condition. Most people usually make the mistake of assuming that just because their impairment is evident, they don’t need medical documents to support it. Unfortunately, with over 63 million Americans receiving benefits every month and many others applying, the SSA usually goes the extra mile in checking each application. Hiring a social security disability attorney Chicago IL prevents one from making such costly mistakes as he/she will double check to ensure that your application is supported with all the relevant documents.
Other Causes Of Rejection
– Failure to comply with the medical prescription or therapy
– Criminal convictions or indulging t in illegal activity
– When one has training or experience that can allow them to engage in other economic activities even with the disabilities
– When the income is higher than the recommended
Factors To Consider While Hiring A SSD Attorney In Chicago
When your claim is denied, the SSA gives you up to 60 days to file for an appeal. As mentioned earlier, you stand higher chances of reconsideration if you hire an attorney to help you with the process. Below are some tips to help you hire nothing but the best
– Location
– Fee
– How frequently they meet the client
– Experience and academic accreditation
To help you win, an attorney must be knowledgeable and also experienced. They must also be board certified. You can know if they are experienced based on
– Their success, i.e., a high approval rate for clients
– Positive reviews and testimonials from previous clientele
– The number of years that they have been practicing disability law
– Academic proof
Even though it’s not a requirement, hiring an attorney not only inches your claim closer to approval but also makes things way much easier for you.