Dickson County Social Security Disability (SSDI/SSA) Lawyer
If you or a loved one is living with a disabling medical condition and are in need of financial support to replace lost income, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Daniel Martin is an SSDI lawyer serving Dickson County and surrounding areas, providing experienced representation, advocacy, and guidance to individuals applying for benefits or appealing SSDI denials.
At the Law Office of Daniel Martin, we prioritize compassionate listening and strategic legal approaches to ensure our clients have the best chance of a successful claim. We will work with you to determine if your condition meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) disability criteria and to build your case so your claim clearly shows the impact your illness or injury has on your life. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
What You Should Know About Filing an SSDI Claim
Applying for SSDI benefits is often an uphill battle, but facing stringent criteria and complex processes is less overwhelming when you have assistance from someone familiar with the requirements.
When you file your initial SSDI claim, you will likely need to submit the following documentation and information:
- Work history
- Education records
- Birth certificate
- Proof of US citizenship or legal residency
- Social Security number
- W-2s and tax returns
- Medical records
- Adult Disability Report
- Marriage and dependent information
- Criminal history
- Banking details
The SSA expects the applicant to provide the correct materials and accurate information, which can be intimidating for many people. Keep in mind that some forms and documents you submit might need to be originals or certified copies. Missing any details of the application requirements could lead to a denial, so review the directions thoroughly to ensure you are completing your claim correctly.
The Law Office of Daniel Martin is happy to help you with your initial claim. We understand how daunting and confusing the SSA requirements can be, and we will do everything we can to make the process as simple for you as possible. Your focus should be your health, and navigating complex government procedures is not conducive to your recovery or improved well-being. Clients have been trusting Daniel Martin to help them with their SSDI claims for 13 years, so schedule your free consultation today to discuss your case with a Dickson County SSA lawyer you can count on.
What You Should Know About Filing an SSDI Appeal
Only around one-third of all initial SSDI claims are approved. If you are denied after submitting your application, you can request a reconsideration. In a reconsideration, an SSA employee who was not involved in your initial claim decision will review your claim and determine whether you are eligible.
If you receive another denial after reconsideration, you can request a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. Each stage of the initial application and appeals process can take months or over a year to complete, which is a reminder that mistakes in your original application should be avoided.
You have multiple possible stages of appeal, but whichever step you are preparing for, gathering relevant, convincing evidence is crucial. The following information and documentation may be important for your SSDI appeal:
- SSDI denial letter – your notice of denial from the SSA will include key information about the denial and your right to appeal
- Medical records – to establish the severity, duration, and impact of your condition, medical records are a must. Consider including medical reports and treatment notes from doctors, specialists, and hospitals, as well as diagnostic test results and written statements from your providers. Updated information you’ve received since filing your initial claim can also be included in an appeal.
- Work history – your complete and detailed work history should include information like job titles, duties, and how your medical condition prevents you from performing past or current work.
- Personal statements – showing the SSA how your life has been affected by your condition is another crucial part of approval. One way you can do this is by writing a personal statement that explains all the ways in which your daily life and ability to work have been impacted.
- Testimonials and affidavits – people who know you, such as your family, friends, and former coworkers, can also write statements about what they’ve witnessed regarding your medical condition. They can provide valuable insight into how your illness or injury affects your day-to-day life and work capacity.
- SSA forms – there are multiple required forms that must be submitted at various stages of your appeal, including Form SSA-561 and Form SSA-3441. It is crucial that these forms are submitted correctly and on time, so consult with a Social Security disability lawyer if you need guidance on the requirements.
Dedicated Experience in SSDI Claims and Denials
Dickson County Social Security lawyer Daniel Martin works tirelessly for his clients, ensuring that their rights are protected and their claims and appeals are submitted correctly. If you would like to discuss your medical condition and the SSA requirements for disability, contact the Law Office of Daniel Martin to schedule your free consultation.