When Should I Talk to a Social Security Disability Lawyer?

If you’ve been injured and you are unable to work (or you are unable to earn as much as you used to), it is in your best interests to find out if you are eligible for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. Social Security disability is a federal government program that provides financial assistance to individuals who have been diagnosed with disabilities; and, if you are eligible, collecting benefits could be critical for managing the costs of your diagnosis.

At Colling Gilbert Wright, our Orlando Social Security Disability lawyers have helped people throughout Florida receive the benefits they deserve. If you have questions about your social security benefits, we can help.  

7 Times You Should Talk to a Social Security Disability Lawyer

The process for seeking social security disability benefits can feel overwhelming. If you are thinking about filing for benefits, here are seven scenarios in which it makes sense to talk to an Orlando Social Security disability lawyer about your legal rights:

1. You Need to Know if You are Eligible for SSD Benefits

If you have recently been diagnosed with a disabling medical condition and need to know if you are eligible for Social Security disability, you should talk to a lawyer about your legal rights. Determining your eligibility isn’t easy, and there are several factors that can impact the amount of SSD benefits (if any) you are entitled to receive. A lawyer can review your employment history and medical records to determine if it makes sense for you to submit an application. 

2. You Need Help Understanding the Application Process

If you are trying to file for Social Security disability and are having trouble understanding the application process, you are not alone. The application process is complicated, and you need a lot of information in order to submit an application that the Social Security Administration (SSA) will approve. Social Security disability lawyers help people like you every day, and an experienced lawyer will be able to guide you step-by-step through the application process. 

3. The Social Security Administration Isn’t Paying Your Claim 

Many people believe (or hope) that once they file an application for Social Security disability, they will start receiving checks in the mail fairly soon. Unfortunately, this typically isn’t the case. The SSA receives an inordinate number of disability benefit applications every single day, and it says that most people should expect to wait three to five months to receive an initial decision. 

But, the process can take even longer—especially if your application is missing information or you haven’t submitted adequate supporting documentation. A lawyer can determine why your claim is taking so long, submit any additional information to help speed up the process, and communicate with the SSA on your behalf if necessary. 

4. The SSA Has Denied Your Claim

If the SSA has denied your application for Social Security disability, you should speak with a lawyer promptly. Most claims get denied initially, and many people find themselves needing to file an SSD appeal. Just like the initial application process, filing an appeal presents a variety of challenges, so it is best to have an Orlando Social Security disability lawyer on your side. 

5. You Need to File for SSD Because You Got Injured in an Accident

Are you seeking Social Security disability because you got injured in an accident? If so, this is definitely a situation in which you should speak with a lawyer. Depending on what happened, you could have a claim for workers’ compensation benefits (in addition to SSD benefits) benefits, and you could potentially have a personal injury claim as well. 

6. Your Social Security Disability Checks Have Stopped

Have your Social Security disability checks stopped unexpectedly? If so, this is another situation in which you will want to speak with a lawyer promptly. This isn’t unusual, but it is a situation that typically requires experienced legal representation. 

7. You Simply Have Questions about Filing for Social Security Disability 

Finally, if you simply have questions about filing for Social Security disability, you have nothing to lose by scheduling a free initial consultation. At Colling Gilbert Wright, we talk to people who have questions about filing for SSD benefits all the time, and we are more than happy to help you make informed decisions about asserting your legal rights. 

Talk to a Social Security Disability Lawyer in Orlando for Free

The experienced legal team at Colling Gilbert Wright has built a reputation for excellence in a range of personal injury and social security disability matters in Florida. We understand the challenges you may face when attempting to handle your SSD issue alone. We are committed to helping you through the process with honesty and integrity.

Our Orlando social security disability lawyers are ready to help. To schedule your free initial consultation, contact our office online or call (800) 766-1000 today.