Carlstadt NJ Social Security Disability Lawyer

Prior to any hearings that may be held on your disability appeal, it is vital that you speak with an experienced Carlstadt NJ Social Security disability lawyer. At Hermann Law Group, PLLC, our attorneys understand how challenging it can be to file a disability claim or appeal. We also appreciate the drastic consequences failing to obtain Social Security benefits and the potential impact this may have on your quality of life. In light of these repercussions, we take our job very seriously and give each matter the attention it deserves.

The following information will provide you will additional insight into Social Security disability benefits.

5 Elements Needed to Qualify for Social Security Benefits

Although there are different categories of Social Security benefits, Social Security Disability (“SSD”) and Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”), both categories require that applicants meet similar qualifications. Upon demonstrating that you qualify for Social Security benefits based on your income or work history, you must also establish that you:

1. Are not participating in substantial gainful activity
2. Have severe medical conditions that will continue for at least 12 months,
3. Suffer from one of the severe symptoms that Social Security associates with a medical condition,
4. Are unable to work in your occupation or field, and
5. Cannot engage in other work.

Most often, establishing these five elements requires a thorough assessment of your medical condition. It also requires assessment of evidence of that condition and the governing law. In addition to these elements, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will also consider your education, age, employment history, and skill level. If you want to see how these five-elements would apply to your claim, we recommend that you contact a Carlstadt NJ Social Security disability lawyer.

Appealing a Social Security Disability Determination

After submitting your Social Security disability application, SSA will assess your claim to determine whether or not to grant your requested benefits. It is important to remember that SSA denies a significant proportion of disability claims. If SSA denies your application, you should not be overly concerned. Instead, you should speak with a seasoned Carlstadt NJ Social Security disability lawyer who can discuss the possibility of filing an appeal.

To appeal an adverse decision, you must submit a Request for Hearing and a Disability Appeals Report. If you fail to file these forms within 60 days of receiving your denial, you will be required to restart the entire application process. In light of these stringent requirements, we recommend that you arrange a meeting with a Carlstadt NJ Social Security disability lawyer.

Once you submit the forms necessary for your appeal, SSA will refer your appeal to the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (“ODAR”). You, alongside your Carlstadt NJ Social Security disability lawyer, will then be permitted to evaluate your complete file to determine if any additional information should be considered.

While SSA generally reviews appeals by the date they are submitted, you may be entitled to an expedited hearing.

Critical Questions to Ask a Carlstadt NJ Social Security Disability Lawyer

Choosing the right attorney is an important task. Before you sign a contract hiring a lawyer, we recommend that you ask them the following questions:

• Are you a licensed attorney in good standing?
• Are you familiar with my Administrative Law Judges (“ALJ”)?
• Do you understand my medical conditions?
• How frequently do you speak with your clients?
• Will you be the person appearing at my Social Security hearing?
• How do you charge clients for attorney’s fees and costs?

Appealing a disability benefits determination takes a considerable amount of time and effort. In light of this overwhelming process, we recommend that you hire a disability lawyer that you can trust. If you are not satisfied with an attorney, you should always seek a second opinion.

Individualized Representation

At Herman Law Group, our attorneys establish close personal relationships with clients. We also spend time making sure they understand your particular circumstances. If you want to learn more about our individualized approach to handling Social Security disability claims, we recommend that you schedule a complimentary consultation.

What to Expect at a Social Security Hearing

During a Social Security hearing, the judge and your Carlstadt NJ Social Security disability lawyer will ask you a host of different questions that pertain to your:

• Medical conditions and symptoms,
• Daily life activities,
• Education,
• Work experience,
• Capacity to work, and
• Past or current issues with substance abuse (if relevant)

Even though some of these questions may be very personal, you will need to answer them truthfully. Any untruthful answers may affect the judge’s determination concerning your disability benefits.

Also, you should remember to thoroughly prepare for your hearing. This includes reviewing relevant documents, including but not limited to your medical records.

Contact a Carlstadt NJ Social Security Disability Lawyer Today

Contact the Hermann Law Group, PLLC at 888-981-9286 to speak with a Carlstadt NJ Social Security disability lawyer today.