Submitting a Columbia Social Security disability (SSD) claim offers no guarantees. Even if you complete the claims process correctly, you may still have your request denied. At this point, you may want to consider hiring a Columbia Social Security disability attorney.
The Shelly Leeke Law Firm is a trusted choice for legal help with Social Security disability claims in Columbia. We can connect you with an experienced Social Security disability lawyer in South Carolina. From here, our attorney can review your case and help you find ways to strengthen it.
What to Expect When You Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits in Columbia
The Social Security Administration (SSA) lets people submit a disability benefits application at any time. You can complete the application process online, in person, or over the phone. Once you finish the process, you should expect to get results within about three to five months.
You can check the status of your Social Security disability benefits application. If your application is rejected, you can appeal the SSA’s decision. Yet, the process of doing so can be time-consuming and overwhelming.
A Social Security disability lawyer in Columbia takes the guesswork out of appealing the SSA’s decision to decline your request. Your lawyer can explain common reasons why SSD benefits requests are denied. Plus, your attorney can help you figure out how to dispute a denied SSD benefits claim.
How to Appeal a Social Security Disability Benefits Decision
After your Social Security disability benefits claim is denied, you have up to 60 days to appeal. There are four stages of appeals you may need to complete:
1. Request for Reconsideration
You can submit a request for reconsideration from the SSA. An examiner from a Disability Determination Service (DDS) office in South Carolina will review your request. If the examiner finds your claim is valid, your initial rejection will be reversed.
2. Request for a Hearing
Following a denial of reconsideration, an administrative law judge (ALJ) will hear your case. The hearing may be held via a video meeting, in person, or over the phone. The ALJ will request evidence and ask questions to determine whether to approve your claim.
3. Request a Review of Your Hearing Decision
The SSA’s Appeals Council can review an ALJ’s decision to decline your claim. If the council disagrees with the judge’s decision, your claim may be approved. In this scenario, the council may also return your case to an ALJ for additional review.
4. Request a Review by a Federal District Court
The U.S. District Court can take a look at your claim. This is the final step to appeal your claim’s denial. If the U.S. District Court does not validate your claim, you will not receive the Social Security disability benefits you have requested.
A Social Security disability attorney in Columbia can guide you through the appeals process. At each stage, your attorney will do everything possible to help you present a strong case. If your lawyer succeeds, you will receive your disability benefits.
How to Respond If You Are Denied Social Security Disability Benefits
If the SSA rejects your request for Social Security disability benefits, try not to panic. Here is how you should respond to this situation.
Begin the Appeals Process
Time is limited to appeal the SSA’s decision. Begin with a reconsideration request. If you continue to get denied, you can move your case through to the U.S. District Court.
Submit Relevant and Accurate Evidence
Provide medical evidence that illustrates your disability and why you are applying for SSD benefits in the first place. This evidence can include medical records and other documents that highlight your medical condition and its severity. If you submit evidence that makes it clear your SSD benefits request is relevant, you are likely to get approved.
Request Testimonials from Doctors
Reach out to any doctors who have seen or treated you. These doctors can submit a residual functional capacity (RFC) form on your behalf. They can also provide other documents to support your SSD benefits claim.
Contact an SSD Attorney
An SSD lawyer understands the appeals process and can help you navigate it with precision and care. Your lawyer can answer any questions you have about what to do if your SSD benefits claim is denied. In addition, your attorney will help you collect evidence and make a compelling argument.
Hiring an SSD attorney offers a great starting point for those who want to appeal a disability benefits denial. Your lawyer can learn about your claim and help you plan accordingly. In the weeks and months to follow, your attorney will advocate for you to boost your chances of getting your claim approved.
How to Find a Social Security Disability Attorney in Columbia
Schedule a consultation with a Columbia Social Security disability lawyer so you can get legal help with your case. The consultation represents a learning opportunity for both you and the attorney. You can ask questions and find out how the attorney will approach your case, while the lawyer can explain your legal options at this time.
It is beneficial to hire an SSD lawyer with a proven track record. This attorney knows what it takes to dispute a denied SSD benefits claim. Also, the lawyer understands how to present evidence and testimony to support their client’s case.
Lastly, select an SSD lawyer who values communication and collaboration. This lawyer will work in lockstep with their client so this individual can achieve the best possible case results. If you ever have concerns or questions regarding your case, your attorney will be ready to respond to them.
Connect with a Top-Notch Social Security Disability Lawyer in Columbia
The Shelly Leeke Law Firm has plenty of experience with Social Security disability benefits cases in Columbia. If you want to meet with an SSD attorney in Columbia to discuss your case, we are here for you. To learn more or request a free consultation, get in touch with us today.
