DISABILITY CLAIM? IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES!

Here are a few important tips on how to improve your chances of getting a Social Security claim approved:

 Initial or Application Level

  • Explain the exact duties of your past jobs (going back 15 years).  Use a Work History Report for this.  Be as specific as possible about your job duties.
  • Explain how your illness or injury holds you back in day-to-day functions like walking, bending, doing yard work, concentration, etc.
  • Have a close friend or family member complete a Third Party Function Report.
  • Be sure to list all your doctors and medical providers with correct addresses.
  • Complete and return any requested forms promptly.
  • Keep any consultative exams arranged with doctors by Social Security.
Appeal or Hearing Level
  • Ask for an appeal in writing within 60 days of being denied (very important)
  • Ask the hard questions of yourself:  Am I really unable to work?  Why?  Do I have enough medical evidence to prove it, or do I need to get more?
  • Why is going to happen at the appeal hearing?  What are the issues to be raised?
  • Am I the best one to represent my case or do I need professional help?
Please realize that both the claimant and the representative play important roles in a Social Security adjudicatory hearing.  When you represent yourself, you are performing two vital jobs--that of claimant and that of attorney/representative.  It's difficult for most folks to perform both of those jobs well under intense pressure.  Claimants who use professional representation usually win (a) more often, and (b) get more back pay.

You cannot be charged a fee for professional representation unless you win the claim and collect back pay or retroactive benefits.

If you need to talk to someone about your Social Security disability claim, please contact us:

THE FORSYTHE FIRM
Charles W. Forsythe
7027 Old Madison Pike, Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806
PH:  (256) 799-0297


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