Continued medical treatment is essential proof of entitlement to disability benefits. If you fall into this category, it may be time to fill out a social security application.
You can apply for Social Security if you are at least 61 years and 9 months old (for retirement benefits) or have a medical condition that meets the government’s definition of disability (for disability benefits). To qualify for either, you must have been employed in jobs that paid into Social Security.
Applications for retirement benefits can be submitted online through the administration’s website. However, if you apply for disability, you may need to apply in person at a local office. Many applicants end up seeking the help of an experienced attorney, as proving a disability can be quite difficult. Read on for some common questions about getting started with your social security application.
What could a lawyer charge?
Most firms and attorneys will work on your case on a contingency basis. This means that your rate depends on how much your first check is worth. For example, if you received an initial fee of $3,000, the attorney may charge you 15% of that. Please note that the figures provided are extremely generic, as there are no formalized percentage agreements between attorneys. Be sure to talk to your representative about specific fees before you sign anything.
What could a lawyer do that I can’t do on my own?
In some rare cases, a lawyer can’t really do much. But, in general, they help the applicant understand his rights and what rights he has under the law. Skilled attorneys spend years learning the ins and outs of disability laws, under what circumstances those laws apply, and how those laws may apply to your particular situation.
I have been treated continuously for a persistent injury. Does my pending SS payment cover past medical expenses?
This one is tricky because the answer is both yes and no. For one thing, your first payment will hopefully be enough to fully cover your past medical expenses related to his condition. On the other hand, your first payment may not be enough to cover even a fraction of the cost. But do not worry! There are a number of alternative ways to deal with this, such as securing free or sliding scale treatments. Talk to your attorney about the options available to you.
Deciding whether or not to complete a social security application can be a real turning point in someone’s life. There are good lawyers who can help. If you find yourself in that situation, contact one right away to discuss your options and learn how to apply.
