When applying for something as important as Social Security Disability benefits, you want to leave nothing up to chance. While you can file a disability claim can on your own – it is recommended to enlist the professional help of an SSDI attorney in Orlando from Culbertson Law Group.

Applying for disability benefits is a daunting task. However, the secret to a stress-free and streamlined application process often comes down to who you select as your legal partner. Read on to learn how a local Orlando disability lawyer can help make every step of applying for disability benefits as easy as possible.

What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (“SSDI”) gives benefits to those who are disabled or blind and are ‘insured’ by workers’ contributions to the Social Security trust fund. These contributions are based on their earnings (or those of your spouse or parents) as required by the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). The amount of financial benefit received is dependent on the earnings of the individual, much like Social Security retirement benefits. 

The Disability Benefits Filing Process

Applying for benefits requires a 5-step process:

1. Gather all necessary documentation. 
2. Fill out and submit your application.
3. The Social Security Administration will determine if qualifications are met, including:
   1. Determining if there are enough years of work to qualify.
   2. Evaluating current work tasks, requirements, and activities.
4. The Social Security Administration will forward the application to your state Disability Determination Services office.
5. The Disability Determination Services in your state will make the disability benefits decision. 

While this process may seem straightforward, the Social Security Administration determines that the processing time is approximately 103 days for disability claims. In some cases, a review of documentation, proof, and evidence can even take up to two full years. This is a very long time to wait for the disability benefits you need sooner than later. Partnering with an Orlando disability lawyer like those at Culbertson Law Firm can provide assurance of thorough documentation preparation up front and supportive representation from start to finish. 

Preparation

Applying for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration is nuanced and often leaves applicants confused and uncertain if they have included all the necessary documentation. For this very reason, over 65% of claims are denied the first time around. Leaning on the legal experience of an Orlando disability lawyer acquainted with the claims application process can reduce your chances of being rejected because of a lack of medical evidence or proof. Additionally, filing your disability claim with the help of a lawyer will keep you prepared and covered throughout the application process in several ways:

• Ensure you understand and meet all criteria.
• Present your case clearly and leave nothing to chance or conjecture.
• Provide complete evidence and further ensure claim eligibility by collecting all necessary medical documentation from doctors, hospitals, and treatment facilities.

Representation

Evidence shows that disability claims filed with the aid of an attorney are more likely to be approved faster and within the first round of review. However, if your original claim is denied, legal representation matters. A disability claims lawyer can represent you at administrative hearings and other appeals proceedings. The legal advice provided by your attorney is beneficial since they can:

• Assist in obtaining additional medical evidence or documentation from healthcare professionals involved in your medical treatment.
• Give guidance in preparing for legal hearing questions.
• Provide clear communication at your case hearing to ensure the judge understands how an injury or disability impacts your ability to work effectively. 

At Culbertson Law Group, we have an SSDI attorney in Orlando available to help you obtain SSDI benefits. Whether you are planning to apply for disability benefits or if your original claim was denied, it is in your best interest to work with an attorney who understands the requirements and timeline of the claims process. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation. We look forward to helping you pursue your benefits.