When filing a disability claim, you will be working with several individuals, including a Social Security claims representative. He or she will be the face of the Social Security Administration (SSA) while your claim is being processed. This individual is responsible for determining whether you are eligible for disability benefits.
This is why it is important to cooperate and remain in contact with your Social Security claims representative during the process. Failure to provide the requested documentation or not showing up to a scheduled medical exam will likely result in a denied claim.
Dayes Law Firm explains the role of a Social Security claims representative and what it takes to move your application along for disability benefits. Find out how we may be able to help you in a free consultation.
Perform Initial Interviews
After applying for disability benefits, the Social Security claims representative assigned to you will review your claim and then conduct an initial interview to learn more about your disabling condition and how it affects your ability to work. He or she will ask about your treating doctors and other medical providers, your work history, educational background and other relevant information.
This interview can be conducted over the phone or in person. If you do not provide the necessary information required or lie about anything, this could impact your ability to obtain disability benefits.
Verify Technical Qualifications
Before your Social Security claims representative sends your application to the Office of Disability Determination Services (DDS), he or she will verify that you meet all the technical requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Eligibility for SSDI will depend on the number of years worked over the last ten years and how many work credits you earned prior to your impairment. Eligibility for SSI will depend on the amount of income and assets you have. He or she will check to make sure you have been working and whether you have been performing a substantial amount of work to qualify you for disability benefits.
It is important to provide a solid work history to improve your chances of approval. If it is found that your income and assets exceed the limits, your claim will be dismissed almost immediately.
Application Submission to DDS
Once you are deemed eligible, DDS will then receive your claim for a medical disability determination. A disability examiner at DDS will review your medical records to confirm that you suffer from a qualifying condition or that your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) does not allow you to work and earn income.
Your Social Security claims representative’s job does not stop once your claim is sent to the DDS. He or she will continue to be your contact regarding the status of your claim or to answer any questions you have. If you do not answer calls or remain in touch, you could miss out on getting status updates or being asked to send over additional documentation, such as new test results or a new doctor’s contact details.
What if a Claims Representative Denies My Claim?
If your disability claim is denied, your Social Security claims representative will be able to provide you with general information about how to appeal. However, navigating through the legal process of submitting a claim or handling an appeal can be difficult. This is why we recommend seeking legal representation.
An experienced lawyer will be able to review your situation and help you understand your legal options. Even if your application was denied because you failed to cooperate, he or she may still be able to help appeal the decision.
Get Answers to Your Social Security Disability Questions
Our Phoenix Social Security Disability lawyers are prepared to help you obtain the disability benefits you need. There is no risk in calling our firm to learn more about whether you have a qualifying condition.
Our initial consultations are 100 percent free without any obligation to move forward with our services. Should we represent you, we charge nothing up front. We only get paid if you obtain disability benefits.
Dayes Law Firm. Free Case Reviews. Ph: 1-800-503-2000.