It can be crucial to your case to speak to an experienced Dumont NJ Social Security disability lawyer before any disability appeal hearings. At Hermann Law Group, PLLC, our lawyers understand the challenges of filing or appealing a disability claim. We also consider the consequences associated with failing to receive Social Security benefits, as well as the impact that may have on your quality of life. Due to these consequences, we take a meticulous approach to the process and give each matter our undivided attention.
What You Need to Qualify for Social Security Benefits
There are two different categories of Social Security disability benefits. These two categories include:
- Social Security Disability (SSD): Eligible to workers with sufficient work credits who are unable to work for at least 12 months due to a debilitating medical condition.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Eligible to adults with low incomes who can provide evidence of debilitating medical issues.
Both SSD and SSI require applicants to meet similar qualifications. When demonstrating your qualification for Social Security benefits based on your work history or income, you will also need to establish the following. You:
- Are not participating in the considerable gainful activity
- Have serious medical conditions that will last for 12 months or more
- Suffer from symptoms that Social Security correlates with medical conditions
- Cannot work in your field or occupation
- Cannot employ in other work
Often establishing the above elements requires a detailed assessment of your medical condition. This assessment also includes analyzing evidence of that condition, as well as the governing law. The Social Security Administration (SSA) also considers your age, education, employment history, and level of skill. Contact a Dumont NJ Social Security disability lawyer to determine how these elements apply to your claim.
Social Security Disability Benefits Appeal
Once you submit your Social Security disability application, SSA will review your claim and either grant your requested benefits or deny them. Unfortunately, SSA denies an overwhelming number of disability claims. Should SSA deny your application, you still have options. Speak to a Dumont NJ Social Security disability lawyer to discuss your option for filing an appeal.
If you choose to appeal an adverse decision, you must file a Disability Appeals Report and a Request for Hearing within 60 days of denial. If you fail to file these forms within the given time frame, then you will need to restart the entire application process. Because of the stringent requirements for an appeal, we advise you to arrange a meeting with a Dumont NJ Social Security disability lawyer.
After you file the necessary forms for your appeal, SSA will then submit your appeal to the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR). You and your Dumont NJ Social Security disability lawyer will then be authorized to review your complete file and determine if any further information is needed.
Most of the time, SSA reviews appeals by the submitted date, however, you might be permitted to an expedited hearing.
Questions to Ask Your Dumont NJ Social Security Disability Lawyer
Selecting the right lawyer for your specific circumstances is a very important task. Before you sign any fee agreements, we advise that you ask the following questions:
- Are you licensed and in good standing?
- Are you acquainted with my Administrative Law Judges (ALJ)?
- Do you comprehend my particular medical condition?
- How often do you speak and interact with your clients?
- Are you the person that will appear at my Social Security hearing?
- What are the attorney’s fees and costs you charge clients?
Appealing an adverse disability benefits decision is a lengthy process that requires much effort. To better your chances of receiving a favorable outcome, we advise you to hire a Dumont NJ Social Security disability lawyer you can trust. If you’re not comfortable with an attorney and feel they cannot handle your claim, contact Hermann Law Group, PLLC to get a second opinion.
Personalized Representation
At Hermann Law Group, PLLC, our Dumont disability lawyers establish personal relationships with our clients. We spend the time to fully understand your specific circumstances. If you wish to learn more about our personalized approach to dealing with Social Security disability claims, schedule a free consultation today.
What Should You Expect at Your Social Security Hearing?
During your Social Security hearing, the judge and your Dumont NJ Social Security disability lawyer will ask different questions pertaining to your:
- Medical symptoms and conditions
- Daily activities
- Education and work experience
- Ability to work
- Past or current substance abuse issues (if applicable)
Though many of the questions are very personal, you are required to answer them truthfully. Any untruthful answers may hinder your disability claim. You will also want to prepare thoroughly for your hearing, including reviewing relevant documents and medical records.
Contact a Dumont NJ Social Security Disability Lawyer
To speak to a Dumont NJ Social Security disability lawyer, contact the Hermann Law Group, PLLC today.