What is the biggest mistake people make when trying to get disability benefits?
Failing to appeal. More than half of the people whose applications are denied fail to appeal. Many people who are denied on reconsideration fail to request a hearing. Another mistake, although much less common, is made by people who fail to obtain appropriate medical care. Some people with long-term chronic medical problems feel that they have not been helped much by doctors. Thus, for the most part, they stop going for treatment. This is a mistake for both medical and legal reasons. First, no one needs good medical care more than those with chronic medical problems. Second, medical treatment records provide the most important evidence of disability in a social security case.
Failing to appeal. People who fail to obtain appropriate medical care. Should I gather medical records and send them to SSA? SSA will gather medical records. Just be sure to give them complete names and correct addresses of any doctors you have seen and any hospitals where you have been treated. When should I contact you about representing me? After you have received your second denial and are appealing for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. If you agree to represent me do I call the 800 number for SSA with questions? No, please call my office and we will answer all questions about your claim. How much do you charge? The usual fee is 25% (One-quarter) of back benefits, up to $5,300.00. This is a “Contingent Fee,” a fee paid only if the claim is approved. The fee is one-fourth of those benefits that build up by the time you are found disabled and benefits are paid. Although the usual fee will not normally exceed $5,300.00, if we have to appeal after the first Administrative L
