Regardless of the type of disability benefit for which you intend to apply, it is best to consult with a lawyer before you actually file an application. An attorney can let you know in advance how to avoid errors that can result in a total or partial loss of benefits.
For example, when applying for Social Security Disability benefits, many people give the last day they worked as the date they became disabled. However, in many cases a claimant is entitled to an earlier onset date depending upon the nature and duration of the work. Long term disability claims are usually administered by the insurance companies that issue the policies which pay the benefits. An attorney can advise you how to avoid the insurance company from taking undue advantage of the terms of their policies, which not surprisingly are drafted to suit their goals. Moreover, the insurance company is more likely to provide a fair review of a claim when an attorney is involved.
Most disability applications require medical and vocational information. The default position of disability insurers is to deny an application, and they will misconstrue ambiguous statements to deny an application. The Social Security Administration initially approves only about a third of the applications.
We will discuss every part of the application with you in simple, non-legal terms. We will help you avoid traps and statements that can be used against you. Submitting the strongest application possible increases the chances that you can avoid subsequent rubber stamp denials. We will work with your doctors and obtain vocational assistance if needed. After the initial application is submitted, additional evidence is virtually always demanded. Filing the application is not a one step process.