Only about 35 percent of Social Security Disability claims are approved with the first application, which is why so many people enlist an attorney for assistance right from the start. The lawyer makes sure all the necessary documentation is provided to the administration and that the person has proven his or her case. Even if someone does not have legal representation and the claim is denied, an appeal can be made.
The Claims Process
The initial claim review process can take several months, and filing an appeal adds even more waiting time. Eventually, the appeal will be heard by an administrative law judge. More claims are approved at these types of hearings even if the first appeal is unsuccessful and a second one must be filed. Representation by a Social Security Disability attorney is extremely advantageous because this lawyer knows how to prepare the case to convince a judge of its worthiness.
Making a Case
The Administration is less inclined to approve claims from people with conditions it believes should allow them to continue working full-time. An example is rheumatoid arthritis. The agency representatives need to understand why this claimant deserves disability benefits when so many other people with the same diagnosis continue to earn a living. This case can be made by a lawyer such as Eric R. Hunt. More information on this particular attorney is available at website.
To be approved for disability, the person must be able to prove significant limitations in physical function. This normally requires verification from at least one rheumatologist who has kept documentation of the patient’s symptoms and the disease progression. Diagnostic imaging results should be included, as these images confirm damage to the joints that have taken place.
Including Important Details
Information provided by the doctor must be detailed. It should include how severe the joint pain and disability is and how frequently flare-ups occur. Many people with rheumatoid arthritis deal with ongoing functional problems and discomfort. They may no longer be able to manage even sedentary work if their hand joints are affected. For example, they cannot spend hours typing or using a computer mouse.
