Will My Social Security Lawyer Take Care of Everything for My Claim?

Q: Are SSDI and SSI benefits the same thing?
A: Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income are both disability benefits, but they are not the same. SSDI is awarded based on prior work contributions and earned credits. How long you have been employed, your income record and accumulated work credits are all factored into your qualification to receive SSDI benefits. A credit is earned roughly every quarter of the year a person works and earns at least a minimum amount of income (established each year by Social Security). You are usually eligible for SSDI if you have earned 20 credits out of the past 40 quarters. Eligibility for SSI benefits, however, are dependent upon the financial needs of an individual. SSI can be awarded, regardless of work history. SSI is awarded to those who make less than about $1400 monthly in income. An individual must report all wages, resources and income when applying for SSI. It would be wise to seek the advice of a social security lawyer, if you are confused about your eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance versus Supplemental Security Income benefits.
Q: Should I hire a social security lawyer if my application for disability was not approved?
A: You do not need to have a social security lawyer in order to appeal your claim. But, claimants are often advised to hire a social security lawyer for the appeals process. You will need to file for reconsideration first. Most cases that have been reconsidered are not approved. The next step after reconsideration is to request a hearing for your case. It is strongly recommended that you have a social security lawyer for the hearing process. The likelihood that your claim will be denied decreases with an advocate like a lawyer on your side. You have peace of mind, as a social security lawyer will make sure that your claim is arbitrated fairly all the forms are completed correctly and on time. Should your claim win approval, an attorney can also assure that you get the most favorable onset date.
Q: Will an attorney take care of all my paperwork for disability insurance?
A: A social security lawyer will make sure that all forms are completed appropriately and on time. Knowing that, it is also important for you to be in the loop about all forms and deadlines. This is your case, after all, and you should be involved. Although the attorney will make sure you complete everything, some forms should be your responsibility. The application for disability benefits and anything that involves your employment history, for example, can be filled out by you.