Sustaining a major injury or becoming disabled can prevent you from working and earning an income. If this happens, you may be able to seek financial assistance by applying for Social Security Disability benefits.
Be aware that filing a claim doesn’t automatically result in collecting the benefits you may be owed. To improve your chances of receiving benefits in a timely manner, enlist the help of a Social Security disability lawyer. A legal expert may offer valuable assistance when you file a claim.
When Should I Speak With a Disability Lawyer?
You can initiate the claims process for SSD benefits in the following circumstances:
- Your condition will likely prevent you from working for at least 12 months, or
- Your condition may result in death
Don’t wait to contact a disability attorney if you’re planning to hire one when filing a claim. The sooner an SSD lawyer can begin working on your case, the better.
Contacting an attorney as soon as possible may also benefit you financially. If you speak with a disability lawyer early, you might receive an approval earlier than you otherwise would. This can result in a lower attorney fee.
On that topic, you might be reluctant to hire an attorney because you’re unsure of whether you can afford to do so. Many in your position share this understandable concern.
Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about incurring legal fees without a guarantee that you’ll receive SSD benefits. A reputable Social Security disability lawyer will prevent you from taking on an unreasonable financial risk by entering into a contingency fee agreement when you hire them.
When a disability lawyer enters into a contingency fee agreement with a client, they agree not to charge any fees for their services unless a client receives SSD benefits. A lawyer’s fee will typically be either 25% of your back pay or $6,000, whichever is less.
The initial case evaluation with a disability attorney is also free. You have nothing to lose from meeting with a lawyer, and you may have much to gain.
Why Should I Hire a Disability Attorney?
Hiring a disability attorney if you believe you might qualify for benefits may be wise for several reasons. A Social Security disability lawyer can assist you by:
- Assessing your condition to determine if you’re eligible to receive SSD benefits
- Gathering medical evidence needed to show that you qualify for benefits
- Filing a thorough claim in a timely manner
- Providing assistance if appeals are necessary
- Representing you in court if your claim is unfairly denied
The process of pursuing SSD benefits can overwhelm someone who lacks experience in these matters. Fortunately, you don’t need to pursue benefits alone.
Strongly consider hiring an SSD lawyer instead. You may enjoy greater peace of mind if you know a qualified professional is handling your case.
Speak With a Disability Attorney
Between 2010 and 2019, on average, 21% of initial claims for SSD benefits received approvals. This isn’t meant to suggest you won’t receive benefits if you apply for them. It’s meant to encourage you to boost your approval odds by seeking professional assistance.
A disability lawyer can leverage their experience to help you receive an approval if you qualify. To get started, complete the Free Case Evaluation on this page to get connected with an independent, participating attorney who subscribes to the website.
