By: Capital Injury Law
Is Hiring SSDI Lawyers Worth It? Here’s How Talbot & Kesling Can Help
Even if you’ve just started learning about the Social Security Disability system, you’ve probably already realized it’s complicated and intricate. If you’ve already applied for disability benefits and been denied, you have first-hand experience of how challenging the process can be.
Wherever you are in your journey, we’re here to help you get the Social Security Disability benefits you deserve. Talbot & Kesling at Capital Injury Law in Olympia and Tacoma, WA, specializes in disability claims. Having the right SSDI lawyers behind you can make all the difference, and we have a track record of success to prove it. Let’s look at the SSDI system and how a lawyer can help you navigate it.
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An Overview of Social Security Disability Insurance
SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, is a federal program to financially assist individuals who can’t work because of a disability. Since it’s funded by payroll taxes, it’s designed to be a safety net for those who have contributed to Social Security. Qualifying individuals can receive monthly payments and Medicare health insurance.
SSDI Eligibility
SSDI eligibility hinges on two things: your disability and your work credit. First, you must have a qualifying medical condition. It must be severe enough to prevent you from substantial work and must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
Second, you must have accumulated work credits by working and paying taxes. You earn these credits by working and earning a certain amount each year, and most adults need to have worked five to ten years to have enough credits for disability benefits.
Applying for SSDI
At a glance, the SSDI application seems simple. You can apply online on the Social Security Administration website, by phone, or at any Social Security office. However, the application requires extensive documentation and information. You’ll need to supply detailed medical records, from imaging to doctors’ statements, to prove that your medical condition qualifies.
SSDI applications are reviewed with a strict set of criteria and rules. The review process often takes months before you receive a decision letter.
SSDI Appeals
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. The first stage of an appeal is a reconsideration, where the application is sent to a different set of reviewers. If it is still denied, the second stage is a hearing with an administrative law judge (ALJ).
Do I Need a Social Security Lawyer?
You do not need a lawyer to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance, or even to appeal a denial. But unfortunately, most SSDI applications are denied. Expert legal counsel is the best way to strengthen your claim, increasing your chances of success.
Only approximately one-third of initial applications are approved. With an SSDI lawyer’s guidance, your claim has a better chance, but denial is still common. During the appeal process, however, legal representation significantly changes your likelihood of success.
How SSDI Lawyers Can Help Your Case
One of the reasons so many SSDI applications are denied is simply because of small mistakes or missed opportunities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) must scrutinize applications meticulously, and even a minor error or omission can result in immediate denial. Beyond mistakes, applicants may not understand what evidence the SSA requires and not supply sufficient medical evidence.
Preparing the Application
The first way a Social Security lawyer helps is by overseeing the extensive paperwork and ensuring every box is checked with no mistakes. This alone can protect the validity of your claim, while also saving you time and stress.
Presenting Evidence
A successful SSDI claim must have thorough medical records and documentation to back it, and these items must also be presented strategically to show how you meet the SSA’s stringent standards. SSDI lawyers like Talbot & Kesling know the system inside and out, so they know what is needed and how to present it for the strongest case.
Navigating the Appeals
Most SSDI claims must go to an appeal before succeeding, and this is where legal representation makes the biggest difference. Preparation and presentation are key during your hearing with the ALJ. Your lawyers will carefully guide you through this process, gathering evidence and preparing you for likely questions.
Why Choose Talbot & Kesling for Your SSDI Claim In WA
Having experienced SSDI lawyers backing your case can nearly double your odds of success during an appeal. If you’re applying for SSDI in Washington or appealing a denial, Talbot & Kesling can help. Our proven success, comprehensive approach, and compassionate dedication set us apart and give you a partner you can count on.
Proven: Talbot & Kesling have a track record of successful cases. We have the experience and expertise to make your case a success, too.
Comprehensive: We believe in partnering with you throughout the process, offering guidance every step of the way. No detail or task is too small as we fight to procure the benefits you deserve. From an initial application to the appeal hearing and beyond, our team has you covered.
Compassionate: The goal is for you to get the best possible benefits; neither you nor we get paid if you don’t. But it’s about more than a monthly sum. We truly care about helping you through this challenging time and ensuring you get the assistance you need. You can count on committed, caring service from the entire Capital Injury Law team.
Schedule a Consultation with Talbot & Kesling at Capital Injury Law
With the importance of success and the low odds, working with SSDI lawyers to create a stronger case is a worthwhile investment. We’ll do everything in our power to ensure a successful outcome, and we’ll make the process as convenient as possible so you can focus on your well-being. If you’re ready to invest in your SSDI success, schedule a consultation with Talbot & Kesling today.