Have you ever wondered what to expect in the Social Security Disability process?
My name is Kaitlin Wildoner and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better.
In today’s video, I will be discussing what to expect during the Social Security disability application and appeals process. Social Security disability benefits are designed to help people who are unable to work due to one or more medical conditions that is (or are) expected to last at least a year or end in death.
The first step in applying for Social Security disability benefits is to complete the application. The application will ask for background information as well as information about your medical condition, your work history, and your financial earnings. You will also need to provide medical records and other supporting documentation in certain circumstances after you submit your application.
It can take several months to reach the initial decision. During that time, Social Security is requesting and reviewing your medical records and may ask for you to see a doctor for a consultative exam. They may also ask you to complete forms to give them a better understanding of what you go through on a daily basis in connection with your conditions and the limitations that they leave you with.
If your initial application is denied, you can file an appeal if you’re still disabled and unable to work. The appeals process has several stages, starting with a request for reconsideration. During the request for reconsideration stage, your application is reviewed by a different examiner than the one who reviewed it initially. He or she may request updated medical records, updated statements, and potentially an updated consultative exam. If your application is denied at the reconsideration stage, you can file a request for hearing.
The hearing process is where you will have the opportunity to present evidence and testimony to an administrative law judge. The hearing is conducted by the administrative law judge who was not involved in either the initial or reconsideration decisions. The judge will likely ask questions about your background, your work history, your medical conditions, and your daily activities. You may also be asked at that stage to provide additional medical and vocational testimony. Also present at the hearing is often a vocational witness whose responsibility it is to classify your past work and to respond to questions posed by the judge and/or your attorney about hypothetical individuals and their ability to return to certain jobs in the national economy.
After the hearing, the judge will review all of the evidence and make a decision. The decision will be sent to you in writing and will explain whether you have been approved or denied. If you are approved, you will then receive a Notice of Award and start receiving your benefits. If you are denied by the administrative law judge, you can appeal the decision to the Appeals Council, and if necessary to Federal Court.
The Social Security Disability process can be very complicated and lengthy, but it’s important to keep in mind that help is available. A Social Security disability attorney may be able to help you understand the process and provide guidance on how to navigate it and how to best present your case before the agency.
Thanks so much for watching. If you’re disabled and unable to work, click the scheduling link here or give us a call directly for a free consultation where we discuss your case and see what I can do to help you.
