Your application for Social Security Disability benefits (SSD) goes through many hands before a decision is rendered. It can feel like you’re going through this process alone once you’ve filled out the paperwork but there are many entities and individuals involved. Some people you might communicate with directly, others remain behind the scenes. But if you absolutely want to win your SSD case, the most important thing you can do is have an experienced Social Security Disability attorney on your side.
Here are just some of the professionals who hold your Social Security Disability benefits fate in their hands.
Adjudicator
This individual works for the agency that reviews applications at the initial level for new applicants and reapplicants. The adjudicator sends the claimant forms about work history and daily activities and makes requests of all treating medical providers. It’s sometimes possible to get an adjudicator on the phone and ask your questions, but answers may be rare or incomplete as they are bound by Social Security Administration rules
Disability Determination Experts
These experts are not accessible. You will not be able to talk to them. They review the medical evidence of your case and develop an opinion about whether you meet the impairment listed and what your functional capacity really is. If these experts identify other less-demanding jobs can be done under the circumstances, the application is likely to be denied. If they determine you do meet a particular impairment, the application moves on.
Administrative Law Judge
An administrative law judge for the Social Security Administration will review your SSD or SSI application, hold a hearing, and issue a decision regarding your case. Should they deny your application, their initial decision will be counted heavily during the appeal process and taken as gospel unless there is incredible evidence that can refute their original ruling.
Medical and Vocational Experts
Often, judges are faced with complicated medical and vocational issues when deciding a case, which includes complex medical terminology or confusing job descriptions. This can make an applicant’s condition, work history, and professional skills come into question. Independent contractors are sometimes hired to provide opinions for the judge in response to his or her questions and they are also subject to cross-examination by the claimant’s Social Security Disability attorney.
Social Security Disability Attorney
The worst thing that any Social Security Disability applicant can do is attempt to face their application for benefits on their own. There are far too many details requested, far too many experts and explanations required. It is so easy to mess up, not because you aren’t capable of filling out the forms and delivering the requested information, but because there is always more, more, more that’s needed and those details are easily overlooked.
There will be questions and more forms along the way. You will need support so you can get access to the benefits you deserve. Contact Thurswell Law to get help from the start in securing Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and getting you the compensation your family deserves. Call us at (248) 354-2222 today. We do not charge any fees until we win.