4 Reasons To Hire an Attorney Before you File for Social Security Disability Benefits.

Often clients will come to us only after they have been denied Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.  While we’re always happy to help clients at any stage of the process, we wish that we had been able to help them from the beginning when they completed the initial application.  Why is that?

 

1. Your Chances of Getting Awarded Disability Benefits Are Greatly Increased If You Hire Counsel Before You Apply.

Most SSD applications are initially denied.  Nationally, 64% of initial applications are denied.  The reconsideration appeal level has the lowest approval rating at only 13.8%.

In September 2012, the Social Security Advisory Board released a report which said that the help of a third-party representative has “the potential to greatly expedite the disability determination process, while ensuring that the claimant receives the most informed determination possible at the initial claims stage.”

If we are there at the beginning, helping our clients fill out the application and collecting the medical evidence required for their application to succeed, it is more likely that they will get the benefits they need sooner rather than later.  We can ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and in the proper format.

 

2. You Will Be Represented at Application and at any Administrative Hearing.

Another great reason to hire counsel before you are denied benefits is so that you will not have to navigate the system alone. The administrative rules, procedures, and regulations that apply to disability benefits or supplemental income benefits are confusing and complex.

Plus, many people find the initial application process to be uncomfortable or they do not feel they can present themselves very well or provide the right information.  When you hire counsel at the beginning of your case, you will be represented at all levels of the application process and you will have the advice and guidance you need if the SSA orders you to undergo a medical examination.

 

3. Advice of Counsel.

Probably the most important reason of all is because when you hire counsel, you will have someone to fight for you, answer your questions, and to advise you every step of the way.

 

4. An SSD benefits lawyer works on a contingency-fee basis.

At Culley, Feist, Kuppart & Jordan, LLC, we work on a contingency-fee basis. Our legal fees depend on the awards we obtain for our clients. You won’t pay any fees to us up front and won’t ever pay us a fee until we help you obtain SSD benefits.  Essentially, we don’t get paid until we help you get paid.

Our fee is limited to 25% of the past-due benefits you are awarded, up to a maximum of $6,000.  Note that we will be paid only out of your past-due benefits, or “backpay.”

To learn more about how we can help you file for social security benefits, please contact our office by calling us today for a free consultation at 618-252-7422.