Anyone who has applied for Social Security Disability (SSD) knows how slow the process is. Studies have shown that about two-thirds of Social Security disability requests are initially rejected. If you're turned down, you can request that your case be reconsidered, but few decisions are reversed at that level so you must request a hearing before an administrative law judge. At the hearing stage, nearly two-thirds of applications are then approved.
Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee that your application for Social Security Disability Benefits gets approved faster. However, there are some things that can be done:
1. Request a hearing for "Compassionate Allowances"- Some dire and very serious conditions, such as certain types of cancer, early onset Alzheimer's disease and dozens of others, receive almost immediate approval for Social Security disability benefits. The list of conditions that qualify for "Compassionate Allowances" can be found on the SSA website.
2. Have your documents in order - When you're first applying for disability benefits, describe your medical condition, medical treatment, restrictions and limitations in great detail. Be sure to include all your conditions, even if they seem irrelevant to the case. A back injury could also cause mental health issues, irritability or other conditions. By listing them all together, it may help to argue you are disabled. Too often, people apply for SSD without sufficient medical documentation. Although the Social Security Administration can request the medical records, it's often more efficient if you gather the documentation.
3. Don't drag your feet - Once you file an application for Social Security disability benefits, there's no time to drag feet. If you're asked to submit more paperwork, do it as soon as possible. If you're asked by the SSA to have a consultation done with another physician, do so immediately. Don't give Social Security Administration an excuse for the delay because they are waiting on something from you.
4. Hire an attorney the minute you are denied - Too many people come to me for advice on Social Security Disability benefits weeks or months after they have been denied. That is a mistake. Hire an attorney as soon as you receive a denial because you have only 60 days to appeal.
These four steps could shed days, weeks or even months off of your application for Social Security Disability benefits. Every day that is shed is one day closer to you getting your Social Security Disability benefits. Don't delay; contact Attorney Matthew Noyes today for a free case consultation on your entitlement to Social Security Disability benefits. His Tampa Bay law office - Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes - has been caring for clients since 1955.
