Filing for Social Security disability benefits can be overwhelming. There is a lot of paperwork. Unfortunately, Social Security only approves approximately 35% of claims. There are some things you can do to help get approved for disability benefits.
Make sure your application is complete
Before starting your disability application, make sure that you’re prepared. Social Security needs quite a bit of information to process your claim. Social Security has a checklist that you can follow. An experienced disability advocate can help you prepare filing your disability claim. Your chances improve when you give Social Security complete information. Missing information can often lead to a denial.
What information do I need to complete my application?
Most importantly, you must provide your doctors’ information and work history. You should provide all of the doctors you’ve seen since you stopped working or became unable to work. Medical information should also include any emergency room visits or hospital admissions. Additionally, you must provide your work history. Social Security only asks for jobs you’ve done in the last 15 years.
Getting approved for disability benefit by cooperating with Social Security
You need to cooperate with Social Security to be approved for disability benefit, should go to any medical appointments Social Security schedules. You will have forms to complete. These forms ask questions about your daily activities. They also ask for additional information about your past work. Often, Social Security will deny you if you don’t complete these forms. They will also deny you if you don’t go to any medical examinations. Correspondingly, you want to give Social Security a clear description of your past work. Social Security may deny your case if they don’t categorize your past work properly.
Example 1: How to be approved for disability benefits
Imagine, George filed for disability benefits. On his application, he listed his past work as a supervisor in a warehouse. Social Security needed more information about his job duties. Particularly, they needed to know if he hired or fired other employees. George provided a detailed description of his job. Social Security could properly categorize his past work. Based on the additional information, Social Security approved George’s disability benefits.
Maintain medical treatment
You must provide medical evidence to document any problems related to your medical conditions. You must show that your symptoms cause a serious problem in your functioning. Therefore, you should see your doctors regularly for all of your medical conditions. You should also make sure to follow all of your doctor’s treatment recommendations. This includes taking medications as prescribed. It also includes attending all appointments. Lastly, it can include following any lifestyle change recommendations.
Getting approved for disability benefits with the right medical evidence
Generally, medical evidence includes your doctor’s treatment notes, test results and imaging. As a rule, you should be in treatment with specialists. Frequently, records kept by specialists record your symptoms and problems better than a primary doctor. They focus on specific information that Social Security needs to approve your disability benefits. This can include special tests or examinations. It can also include your doctor’s opinion to explain how your conditions impact your functioning. Typically, your doctor can provide an opinion with a residual functional capacity or RFC form.
Example 2: how to be approved for disability benefits
Namely, Ashley suffers from depression and low back pain. She sees a psychiatrist and therapist regularly. They document that Ashley’s depression continue despite regular therapy and medications. She also sees an orthopedist for her back pain. Her orthopedist ordered MRIs and x-rays of her back documenting degenerative disc disease. Treatment notes also show serious problems with her range of motion. Both doctors provide RFC forms showing Ashley’s depression and pain cause significant problems with her functioning. Social Security reviews all of her evidence and finds that she can no longer work. Ashley is approved for disability benefits.
Follow up on the status of your disability claim
Checking on the status of your disability claim allows you to make sure Social Security handles your case properly. It lets you know if Social Security doesn’t have important medical records. You can confirm that they received your completed forms. It also ensures that you don’t miss any important deadlines.
File appeals
You may think filing a new claim can be better than appealing a denied claim. Rather, you should appeal any denials. Re-filing doesn’t help getting approved for benefits. This only delays the appeals process. Social Security could deny you for the same reasons. Your chances for getting disability benefits improve when you appeal any denials. This can be especially true if you have to request a disability hearing.
Getting approved for disability benefits with a disability advocate
Hiring an experienced disability advocate can increase your chances of getting approved for disability benefits. First, a disability advocate helps you with your disability application or appeal. They can make sure that you provide all important information to Social Security. Second, your disability advocate explains the process. They know what it takes to get a claim approved. Lastly, they file any necessary appeals. Working with a disability advocates gives you an advantage at the hearing level. Your disability advocate prepares you for hearing. They also review your file. They help get any additional evidence that you may need to get approved for disability benefits.
Disability Help Group: Winning case study
To enumerate, Robert filed an application for disability benefits. He was unable to work after he suffered a stroke. Robert was denied for disability benefits. Ultimately, he had to file a request for hearing. Robert hired Disability Help Group (DHG) for assistance. His DHG advocate reviewed his file. Based on the medical records, she submitted a brief to the judge with reasons why Robert should be approved for disability benefits. The judge agreed and approved Robert’s case.
Disability Help Group, Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-700-0652
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.
What is a Residual Functional Capacity Form? Residual functional capacity (RFC) forms can help support your Social Security disability claim. RFC forms explain how your symptoms impact your ability to perform work activities. Social Security does not award benefits on your diagnosis alone. Therefore, you must show that your medical conditions keep you from being able to work.
What is my residual functional capacity?
Residual functional capacity (RFC) is defined as the most you can do despite your medical impairments. An RFC can include both mental and physical limitations. Your RFC is very important. First, Social Security looks at whether your condition meets one of the medial listings. Most conditions won’t be severe enough to meet one of the medical listings. Therefore, Social Security needs to look at your residual functional capacity.
How does Social Security use residual functional capacity forms?
An RFC form helps Social Security understand how your conditions impact your ability to perform activities. The forms are used by SSA’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) office to process your claim. A Social Security medical consultant reviews your medical records. They complete an RFC form based on the information they have. Additionally, they will provide an explanation for their findings. Next, Social Security looks at whether or not your RFC lets them approve your claim.
Physical Residual Functional Capacity forms
A physical RFC form includes questions about your ability to do things like:
How long you can sit, stand or walk at one time or in an 8 hour work day
How much weight you can lift or carry
If you need an assistive device such as a cane, walker, wheelchair or crutches
Using your arms and hands for activities such as reaching, pushing, pulling, gripping or grasping objects
If pain, fatigue, other symptoms or side effects from medications cause limitations with concentration, persistence or pace
Mental Residual Functional Capacity Forms
A mental RFC form includes questions about your ability to do things like:
Your ability to understand, remember or carry out instructions or interact with others such as supervisors, co-workers or the general public
Your ability to maintain attention and concentration
If your symptoms interfere with your ability to show up to work, arrive on time or have to leave early
Residual Functional Capacity forms for your doctors
Your treating doctors may also complete an RFC form. Having your doctor complete an RFC form can be very helpful. After all, they should know more about your health than anyone else. An RFC form should be very detailed. It should include all your medical symptoms and conditions. It should also include all of your treatment and any side effects from medications.
The importance of residual functional capacity forms
Social Security considers more than just your diagnosis. They need to understand how your conditions affect your functioning. Therefore, even if you think your medical evidence is strong, RFC forms can help strengthen your case. Many times, medical records do not clearly translate how your symptoms impact your functioning. Specifically, your doctor’s RFC form can:
Provide your treating doctor’s opinion about how significantly your conditions impact your functioning
Provide your doctor’s opinion in the specific way Social Security evaluates functioning
Can help win your disability case especially if you are appearing before an Administrative Law Judge
How a residual functional capacity form can help win your case
Social Security considers your age, education and work background when evaluating your claim. If you are under the age of 50, you must show that you cannot work at all. Social Security will consider other types of work, not just the work you have done in the past. An RFC form can help explain why you may not be able to work on a full time basis.
Example 1: Residual functional capacity forms
For example, say you are under the age of 50 and worked before as a cashier. You have a back injury that interferes with your ability to do this type of work. You also have side effects from your medications that make you drowsy. In an RFC form, your doctor states that you cannot sit for more than 4 hours or stand or walk for more than 2 hours in a work day. Your doctor also states that you have problems with attention and focus due to your medications. These limitations help support your disability claim because it shows that you could not work a full 8 hour day.
Residual functional capacity forms and the Grid Rules
Social Security recognizes that it may be harder for older individuals to learn new work. Therefore, there are more favorable rules for people 50 or older. These rules are known as the Grid Rules. They are even more favorable if you are 55 or older. Essentially, the Grid Rules consider your age, education and work background. If Social Security finds that you can’t go back to work you’ve done in the past 15 years, you might be disabled.
Example 2: Residual functional capacity forms and the Grid Rules
For example, Ellen, a 53 year old woman previously worked as a cashier. She filed for disability because she developed osteoarthritis in her knees. She can no longer stand or walk for long periods of time. In an RFC form, her doctor stated that shecould not stand or walk for more than 2 hours a day but can sit for at least 6 hours a day. Her doctor also reported that she needed a cane when walking. She cannot work as a cashier. Even though she can do seated work, the Grid Rules allowed Social Security to approve her case.
Example 3: Residual functional capacity forms and the Grid Rules
In another example, Adam, a 57 year old, previously worked as a janitor. His job required him to lift and carry over 50 pounds occasionally. Adam injured his back and can no longer perform his job duties. In an RFC form, Adam’s doctor reported that Adam could not lift more than 20 pounds. He also reported that Adam could only stand or walk for 4 hours a day. Even though Adam could do other work, the Grid Rules allowed Social Security to approve his case.
Disability Help Group, Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-700-0652
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.
How Do I Check My Social Security Disability Work Credits? The Social Security Administration keeps track of your earnings and work credits. They do this by using your Social Security number. Social Security provides this information on your Social Security Earnings Statement. It is available to everyone age 25 and over. Social Security mails out your statement periodically. You can also look at your statement online. You would need to create an online account with Social Security. Occasionally checking your estimated Social Security benefits lets you to check for any mistakes on your record.
What are Social Security Disability Work Credits?
Work credits are credits that you earned during your work history. You receive work credits each year that you work and pay taxes. Unfortunately, Social Security can’t pay you benefits if you don’t have enough work credits. These credits are required to receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI), retirement benefits and Medicare. However, you do not need work credits to file for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). To file for SSI, you need to meet certain income requirements.
How do I earn Social Security disability work credits?
Work credits are based on your total wages and self-employment income for the year. At most, you can earn four work credits per year. The amount of earnings it takes to earn a credit can change from year to year. In 2020, you must earn $5,640 to get four credits for the year. How Can I Check My Social Security Disability Credits?
How many work credits do I need for Social Security Disability benefits?
Generally, you need to earn a total of 20 work credits to qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Typically, Social Security will look back ten years from the date you filed your disability application. You must have worked at least five of those years to qualify. However, there are some age exceptions. If you are younger, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits with fewer credits. For example:
Before age 24 – you need to earn 6 credits or have worked 1.5 years
Ages 24-30 – you need to earn 8-18 credits or have worked 2-4.5 years
Ages 31 or older – you need at least 20 credits in the 10 year period before you became disabled
Do my Social Security disability work credits expire?
Additionally, in order to be eligible for Social Security disability benefits, you must meet a recent work test. After you stop working, you do not have an indefinite time to file for disability benefits. Like other insurance program, your coverage ends after a certain amount of time from when you stop working. How Can I Check My Social Security Disability Credits?
How Does My Date Last Insured Impact My Disability Work Credits
Your date last insured (DLI) is the last date you can qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Your DLI depends on when you last worked. Usually, your DLI lasts five years after you stop working. However, if your earnings were low or your work was inconsistent, your DLI may be less than five years.
Example 1: Date last insured
Bob stopped working in December 2014. He had worked for seven years as an auto mechanic. While he was out of work, Bob fell and injured his neck and shoulder in February 2019. He no longer could work. Bob’s date last insured expires in December 2019. Since Bob’s DLI expires after he became unable to work, he can still qualify for Social Security disability benefits. How Can I Check My Social Security Disability Credits?
Example 2: Date last insured
Gina stopped working in June 2018 after she needed knee surgery. She had worked for over 10 years as a home health aide. She was unable to return to work after her surgery. Gina’s date last insured would not expire until around June 2023. Therefore, she is currently eligible to file for Social Security disability benefits.
What if my DLI has expired?
You can still file for Social Security disability benefits if you stopped working more than five years ago. However, you would need to show that you became disabled before your DLI expired. You must have medical evidence that shows you couldn’t work before your DLI. Sometimes, this can be very difficult. Older medical records might not be available. You may not remember all of the doctors that treated you. How Can I Check My Social Security Disability Credits?
Work with an experienced disability advocate to make sure your Social Security disability work credits are correct
An experienced disability advocate can really help in these situations. Your disability advocate can help you understand these complicated issues. They can help you gather the medical evidence you need to win your case. Frequently, if your DLI has expired, you may need to go to a Social Security disability hearing to decide your case. Your disability advocate gets your ready for your hearing. They also make sure the judge has everything they need to decide your case. How Do I Check My Social Security Disability Work Credits?
Disability Help Group: Winning Case Study
George stopped working in 2013 because he had a car accident. Unfortunately, he was unable to go back to work. He suffered from chronic back pain. George didn’t know he could file for Social Security disability benefits when he stopped working. He contacted Disability Help Group for assistance in 2019. At that time, his date last insured had expired in December 2018. George had to go to a disability hearing. We were able to help George provide all of his medical records to the judge since his accident. Therefore, George was able to show that his medical conditions kept him from working before his DLI. He was approved for benefits.
Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-700-0652
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.
Social Security over 55 Grid rules are special disability rules that can help you win your case.
Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules
It is much easier for Social Security to approve your application for disability benefits if you are over age 55. Typically, for disability benefits, you have to show that you can’t work. If you under age 50, you have to show that you can’t do any kind of work at all. As you get older, there are more favorable rules Social Security can use to approve your case. That’s because Social Security understands that it may be harder for older people to do new types of work. These rules are the “grid rules.”
The grid rules consider different factors. These factors include:
Age
How far you went in school
Work background
Residual functional capacity (RFC) – what you can do despite your medical conditions
The Grid Rules and Your Past Work
Social Security will look to the grid rules once they have figured out your residual functional capacity (RFC). In order to apply the grid rules, Social Security must categorize your past work. The grid rules will only apply if Social Security finds that you can’t return to your past work. Social Security only considers past relevant work. Past relevant work is work done in the past 15 years. It should also have resulted in significant earnings. Temporary or part-time jobs might not count as past relevant work.
Social Security has different physical categories of work. These include:
Sedentary – mostly sitting jobs that don’t require lifting more than 10 pounds
Light – usually require more standing and don’t require lifting more than 20 pounds
Social Security will also look at the type of skills required to do your past work. Sometimes, there are skills from your past work that can be used to do different types of jobs. Social Security calls them transferable skills. It is harder to apply a favorable grid rule when there are transferable skills. However, transferable skills won’t apply if you can only do simple, routine tasks. Generally, Social Security makes this finding when there is treatment for mental health problem.
Applying Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules
Case study 1: Over 55 Grid Rules
For example, a 58 year old man applied for disability because he had coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes and COPD. He previously worked as a warehouse worker and line technician for the local cable company. Social Security categorized his past work as medium and heavy. They found that he could only do light work. Additionally, Social Security found that here were no transferable skills. Therefore, the Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules directed a finding that he was disabled.
Case study 2: Over 55 Grid Rules
In another example, a 57 year old woman applied for disability benefits due to degenerative joint disease in her right shoulder and right knee. She also suffered from vertigo and major depressive disorder. She previously worked as an accounts receivable clerk. Social Security found that she could do simple, routine and light jobs. Her past work is a sedentary job. However, it requires more complex tasks. Therefore, Social Security found that she could not return to her past job. As a result, her case was approved under the Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules.
Case study 3: Over 55 Grid rules
Lastly, a 59 year old man filed for disability benefits because he had degenerative disc disease in his back, osteoarthritis in his hips and depression. He needed a cane to stand and walk. He previously worked as a truck driver and a waiter. Social Security found that he could do simple, routine sedentary jobs. Since his past work was categorized as light and medium, the Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules applied. Social Security was able to approve his claim.
Working with a SSDI Disability Lawyer
An experienced SSDI disability lawyer will tell if you these grid rules apply in your case. More importantly, a disability lawyer can help you get the evidence you need to apply the Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules and win your case.
Disability Help Group: Winning Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules
For instance, Michael applied for benefits because he had back pain. He was 59 years old and had worked in as a janitor for many years. Unfortunately, Michael was denied for benefits. He had not seen his doctors in a while. However, his doctors had told him that he could not work as a janitor any more. Michael then turned to Disability Help Group. We helped him file an appeal. Our advocate suggested that he see a specialist for his back. Michael started seeing an orthopedist and pain management doctor. We also advised him to have an MRI of his back. At his hearing, the judge found that he could not do his past job as a janitor. The judge found that Michael could not lift or carry 50 pounds. As a result, Michael was limited to light work. The judge approved his case based on the Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules.
Disability Help Group, Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-700-0652
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.
Social Security over 50 Grid rules can help you win your disability case.
Social Security Disability Over 50 Grid Rules
Generally, Social Security defines disability as having the inability to work. They look at your ability to go back to your past work. They also look at your ability to do other types of work. However, Social Security recognizes that it may be harder for older individuals to do new work. Therefore, there are more favorable rules for older people. These rules are the “grid rules.”
The grid rules consider different factors. These factors include:
Your age
Education
Work background
Residual functional capacity (RFC) – what you can do despite your medical conditions
The Grid Rules and Your Past Work
Social Security will look at the grid rules once they have figured out your RFC. In order to apply the grid rules, Social Security must categorize your past work. The grid rules will only apply if Social Security finds that you can’t return to your past work. Social Security only considers past relevant work. Past relevant work is work done in the past 15 years. It should also have resulted in significant earnings. Temporary or part-time jobs might not count as past relevant work.
Social Security has different physical categories of work. These include:
Sedentary – mostly sitting jobs that don’t require lifting more than 10 pounds
Light – usually require more standing and don’t require lifting more than 20 pounds
Medium – requires lifting between 25-50 pounds
Heavy – requires lifting more than 50 pounds
The Grid Rules Past Skilled Work
Social Security will also look at the type of skills required to do your past work. Sometimes, there are skills from your past work that can be used to do different types of jobs. These are transferable skills. It is harder to apply a favorable grid rule when there are transferable skills. However, transferable skills won’t apply if you can only do simple, routine tasks. Generally, Social Security makes this finding when there is evidence of mental health impairment.
Applying the Over 50 Grid Rules
Case study 1: Social Security over 50 Grid rules
In one case, a 54 year old man applied for disability benefits after he had his knee replaced. Unfortunately, he continued to have pain and swelling in his knee. This made it impossible for him to go back to work. He previously worked as a security guard. Social Security determined that he had the ability to perform sedentary work. Social Security found that there were no transferable skills. Therefore, the grid rules directed a finding of disabled.
Case study 2: Social Security over 50 Grid rules
In another case, a 51 year old woman applied for disability based on coronary artery disease, depression and anxiety. She previously worked as an office manager and cashier. She suffered from frequent chest pain and leg swelling, also had trouble concentrating. Social Security determined that she could perform sedentary work. Her job as an office manager was categorized as sedentary. Yet, Social Security also found she could only do simple and routine tasks. Since her job required more complex tasks, she was not able to return to her past work. Therefore, the grid rules allowed Social Security to approve her case.
Hire a disability expert who knows the Social Security over 50 Grid Rules
Unfortunately, the grid rules don’t always work out in your favor. This is especially true if you are applying for disability benefits for non-physical conditions. Most commonly, these conditions include problems such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder alone.
For example, a 53 year old man applied for disability benefits when he could no longer work due to depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. He previously worked in a poultry factory. Social Security found that he could only perform simple and routine tasks. Without any physical restrictions, the Social Security over 50 Grid rules directed a finding of not disabled. Consequently, he was denied benefits.
Working with a SSDI Disability Lawyer
Even if the Social Security over 50 Grid rules don’t work in your favor, you can still win your case. In the above example, this gentleman can still win if he proves his conditions meet the medical listing requirements. He can also be approved if he shows he would miss work a lot.
Hire a Disability Expert
An experienced SSDI disability lawyer will help explain the Social Security over 50 Grid rules. They can tell if you these grid rules apply in your case. More importantly, disability lawyer can help you get the evidence you need to apply the grid rules and win your case.
Disability Help Group: Winning Grid Case Study
For instance, Jerry applied for benefits because he had knee pain and swelling. He also had diabetes and diabetic neuropathy. He was 52 years old and had worked in a warehouse for many years.
Unfortunately, Social Security denied Jerry’s claim. He couldn’t understand why. His doctors told him to apply. Finally, Mr. Doyle turned to Disability Help Group. Our advocate suggested that he get a prescription for the cane he had been using. She also noticed that his doctor didn’t write down that he needed to elevate his legs, even though the doctor told Jerry this several times. On our advocate’s advice, he spoke with his doctor. Then, the recommendation was included in his medical records. At hearing, the judge found that Jerry couldn’t do his warehouse job. The judge also found that he couldn’t stand or walk for more than two hours a day. Therefore, Jerry was limited to sedentary work. The Social Security over 50 Grid rules were applied and the judge approved his claim.
Disability Help Group, Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-700-0652
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.
Are you thinking about filing for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, or have you already submitted your application? You should seriously consider hiring an experienced SSDI advocate to help navigate this complex process. Many people mistakenly believe that applying for disability benefits is simple and straightforward. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
The initial Social Security disability application process is demanding and detailed. It requires extensive paperwork, comprehensive medical records, and completion of multiple complex forms. Without proper guidance, the process quickly becomes confusing and overwhelming for most applicants.
While you’re not legally required to hire an SSDI disability advocate, working with an experienced professional significantly improves your chances of approval. There are compelling reasons why partnering with a qualified SSDI advocate is one of the smartest decisions you can make for your claim.
Top Advantages of Hiring an SSDI Advocate
Expert Advocacy Throughout Your Entire Case An experienced SSDI advocate serves as your dedicated representative, guiding you through every step of the complex Social Security disability process. The Social Security Administration has very specific definitions of disability, including detailed Blue Book listings of qualifying medical impairments. These conditions must meet strict criteria to qualify applicants for disability benefits. A knowledgeable SSDI advocate helps you understand these intricate listings and assists in gathering the precise evidence needed to support your claim effectively.
Thorough Review of Your Initial Application Your SSDI advocate meticulously reviews your initial application, identifying any critical missing information or potential errors. Even minor mistakes or omissions can negatively impact your claim throughout the entire process, potentially leading to unnecessary delays or denials. An experienced SSDI advocate helps you avoid making serious mistakes that could jeopardize your case from the very beginning.
Direct Communication with Social Security Administration Your dedicated SSDI disability advocate maintains regular contact with the Social Security Administration to ensure your claim progresses smoothly. They assist with completing important forms accurately and answer any questions you have about the process. This direct line of communication helps prevent delays and ensures nothing falls through the cracks during your case.
Timely Appeals and Deadline Management Most importantly, your SSDI disability advocate files any necessary appeals well before critical deadlines. Missing these deadlines can force you to start the entire process over from the beginning, wasting months or even years of valuable time. An experienced SSDI disability advocate ensures all appeals are filed promptly and properly, protecting your right to benefits.
How an SSDI Advocate Increases Your Approval Chances
Deep Knowledge of the Application Process A seasoned SSDI disability advocate has navigated the application process countless times. They understand exactly why the Social Security Administration denies claims and know precisely what evidence and documentation leads to approvals. This extensive experience allows them to put your claim on the right track from day one. Providing the correct information quickly also helps accelerate your application timeline.
Mastery of Social Security Disability Rules A skilled SSDI disability advocate presents your case strategically to maximize your chances of winning. The Social Security Administration has special disability rules for applicants over age 50, known as “grid rules.” These grid rules consider multiple factors when evaluating your claim, including your age, education level, and work background. An experienced SSDI disability advocate explains how these grid rules work and determines if they apply to your specific situation.
Real-World Case Example: Applying Grid Rules Consider this scenario: You’re over 50 years old and previously worked as a cashier. You had to stop working due to severe arthritis in your knees, preventing you from standing or walking for extended periods. A knowledgeable SSDI disability advocate identifies exactly which medical records will strengthen your case. They also provide specialized forms for your doctor to complete, including crucial Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) forms that document your specific limitations.
Cost of Hiring an SSDI Advocate
No Upfront Costs or Fees There are absolutely no upfront costs when hiring an SSDI disability advocate. If the Social Security Administration doesn’t approve your disability benefits, you pay no fees whatsoever. The Social Security Administration has established specific rules that determine exactly how much disability advocates can be paid.
Social Security Regulates Advocate Fees An SSDI disability advocate cannot receive more than 25% of your back pay, with a maximum cap of $7,200 under current Social Security regulations. In other words, $7,200 is the absolute maximum an SSDI disability advocate can receive in fees. For example, if you’re awarded $40,000 in back pay, your SSDI disability advocate receives $7,200 in fees, and you receive the remaining $32,800.
Direct Payment from Social Security The Social Security Administration automatically withholds your SSDI advocate’s fee from your back pay award. Social Security pays your advocate directly, then sends the remainder of your back pay directly to you. This system ensures complete transparency and eliminates any payment concerns.
Associated Costs for Medical Records However, there may be costs associated with obtaining copies of your medical records from healthcare providers. These administrative costs are separate from advocate fees and must be reimbursed directly to your SSDI advocate.
When Should You Contact a SSDI Advocate?
Early Contact Provides Maximum Benefit Generally, it’s best to contact an experienced SSDI advocate as early as possible in the process. If you’re considering filing for disability benefits, call a qualified SSDI dvocate for a free consultation. They can evaluate the strength of your potential case and assist with the entire initial application process.
Help Available at Any Stage However, it’s never too late to get professional help. You can hire an SSDI advocate during any stage of the disability process, whether you’re filing an initial application, requesting reconsideration, or preparing for a hearing. A skilled SSDI advocate can answer questions about appealing your claim and help identify what went wrong with previous applications or appeals.
Why Choose Disability Help Group?
At Disability Help Group, our experienced advocates understand the Social Security disability system inside and out. We stay current with all law changes and Social Security Administration updates to provide you with the most effective representation possible.
Our team combines legal expertise with compassionate support, ensuring you receive both professional advocacy and personal attention throughout your case. We’re committed to helping you get every disability benefit you deserve from the Social Security Administration.
Ready to get the help you deserve? Contact Disability Help Group today for your free consultation or call 800-800-3332 and take the first step toward securing your Social Security disability benefits.
Disability Help Group specializes in Social Security disability claims, SSDI applications, disability appeals, and hearing representation. Our experienced advocates help clients nationwide navigate the complex Social Security disability process with confidence and success.
