2 WAYS TO FILE FOR FEDERAL DISABILITY BENEFITS

#1 - Obtain Help From a Disability Advocate or Attorney who knows the system and the process.  The majority of claimants whose claims are approved are assisted by a Social Security disability advocate or attorney with experience in filing federal disability claims or handling appeals.  What does this representation cost?  The answer:  Nothing unless you win and receive back payments.  Representation is available on a "pay only if you win" or contingency basis.  There is no risk.  You never pay a fee unless you win your claim and receive a past due award settlement (back pay).

#2 - File your own claim and do your own paperwork and prep.  CAUTION:  Up to 75 percent of initial applications are denied and require an appeal.  Most of these claimants will end up getting professional help with the appeal.  You may want to consider getting professional help at the beginning.  In many cases, representation will cost you nothing -- even if you win.  Here is why:

There is a 5 months waiting period on all Title II disability claims.  You cannot be paid benefits during the first 5 months you are disabled.  If your claim is approved during this 5 month period, there would be no immediate benefit payable, thus no fee for your representative.  Fees are only paid out of back pay.  If there is no back pay, there is no fee.

However, if your representative is able to obtain back payments (perhaps dating back as long as 17 months prior to your application), or if a lengthy appeal is required, back pay may be awarded and a fee could be payable to your representative, which would be paid out of the back payments or past due benefits.  This is win/win for the claimant.  Win back pay and pay a small fee.  Pay nothing if you don't win.

The Forsythe Firm will be happy to provide you with a free analysis of your claim and to answer any questions you may have about federal disability benefits---at no cost, no obligation. We will also explain how the contingency fee system works if we enter into an agreement to represent you.  We are headquartered in Huntsville but work with clients all over Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi and Georgia.  Please call us if you need help.


THE FORSYTHE FIRM
Focused on Social Security Disability
7027 Old Madison Pike NW - Suite 108
"Across from Bridge Street"
Huntsville, AL 35806
PHONE (256) 799-0297         By appointment


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