Social Security, like so many government programs, has a very intricate set of rules, and requirements. Because of this, and the fact that so many steps are time-sensitive, it is an area of the law best left to professionals who study it in depth and keep abreast of all changes and amendments. Keep this in mind when the time comes for you to file a claim for social security disability in Wichita and bring in legal representation.
Filing your initial claim and going through the entire appeals process can be daunting and is one of the main reasons that individuals who try to handle these claims on their own get discouraged and abandon the effort. Taking advantage of a skilled social security disability in Wichita attorney along the way can pay dividends.
You can often make your initial application for benefits by mail or over the phone, so you may be able to avoid an actual trip to the Social Security Office. Getting a determination will generally take anywhere from 3 to 4 months. If it is approved, you can begin collecting your benefits. If not, you can take the next step in the process.
Following a denial, you will have 60 days in which to file a request for reconsideration. This is a review done by a Social Security agent who was not involved in the original claim, and during which you may submit new evidence to support your claim.
If you are not successful in the reconsideration phase, you have the right to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Once again you have 60 days in which to make this request. Appearing before a Judge is very important and it is critical that you have legal representation by an experienced social security disability in Wichita attorney.
If you do not receive a favorable ruling from the Judge, your recourse is an appeals council. If you are still denied, your final step will be to file a lawsuit in Federal Court to have your claim reviewed a final time. Once again, an experienced social security disability in Wichita attorney is called for here.
The process to file for and receive Social Security disability can be a long, convoluted, and trying one, but having legal representation from an experienced attorney will increase your chances of success. When you are seeking that representation, start with the law offices of Slape and Howard.
