Though the process for applying for disability is supposed to be simple, many claimants struggle with it anyway. An Augusta Social Security disability lawyer can help guide you through the process.
Methods for Applying
The most common method for Social Security disability claimants to complete their applications for disability is by calling the SSA’s national toll-free phone number, 1-800-772-1213. The SSA representative will make an appointment for the claimant to visit their local SSA office. You might want your Augusta Social Security disability lawyer to help you.
If you prefer, your Augusta Social Security disability lawyer can help you visit your local SSA office to fill out an application in person. During your appointment, the representative will ask you several basic questions that will be put into a form and printed. If your appointment is being taken over the phone, the forms will be mailed to you for your signature. This form may not be signed by your Augusta Social Security disability lawyer; you must sign it (unless your lawyer has been appointed by the court to do so).
This restriction also means that your Augusta Social Security disability attorney cannot “electronically sign” your application over the Internet. Your attorney may help you fill out the application, but not sign it.
First and Second Levels
The first level of SSA decisions is called the initial decision, and the second is called reconsideration. At these two levels, the SSA does not actually make a determination of disability. Rather, they refer claims to state agencies that contract with the SSA. There, a disability examiner and a medical doctor will evaluate the claim. Your Augusta Social Security disability lawyer might know that this is inefficient, and that the SSA has been testing having disability examiners make certain easy decisions on their own. Either way, the SSA then adopts the determination made by the state agency.
You and your Augusta Social Security disability attorney can appeal if you are not satisfied with the initial decision.
Hearing Level
If your case goes to the reconsideration step, your case will be evaluated by a different decision-maker, but any Augusta Social Security disability lawyer knows that the result is usually the same at this stage. If you are still not satisfied with the decision, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge.
Contact Social Security Disability Lawyer For Legal Assistance
For more information about how to file a claim for disability, contact an Augusta Social Security disability lawyer today.