Have you filed for disability? If so and you have not received a letter of approval or denial, you have likely heard that the process can be long and tedious. However, there are a few things that you can do to make it through the process. The following are a few important points to keep in mind.
You may need a disability lawyer.
Some people think that they can handle their disability cases on their own, and some avoid seeking legal counsel because they think that they cannot afford it. Having legal representation is beneficial for these complicated cases because it ensures that you do not make mistakes in your pending case. There are disability lawyers who do not require upfront payment, and some do not charge a fee unless you are awarded compensation.
You should be mindful of cameras and being under surveillance.
There are people who make bogus disability. Unfortunately, these individuals ruin things for people who really are injured. Sometimes unexpected disabilities leave hard working people unable to provide for themselves, and some of these injured people look for ways to make an income despite their injuries or pain. Working through the pain is something that should be avoided at all costs because sometimes private investigators are hired to perform surveillance on people who insist they are injured. Footage from cameras in public locations may also be subpoenaed if they capture footage showing that you are possibly able-bodied. Trying to explain how painful it was to do certain things that you should not be doing will likely fall on deaf ears, and you might lose your case.
You may be offered a settlement.
Sometimes lump sums are negotiated in disability cases. If you have legal counsel, you will be able to ensure that you do not accept a settlement that does not meet your needs. For example, a settlement for 2 million dollars might sound like a lot of money, but if you have medical bills that exceed a million dollars, the remainder of the money may not be enough to take care of you for the rest of your life.
You may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in the meantime.
These are funds that you have paid into Social Security Disability Insurance during employment. It is ideal to file if you will not be able to go back to work for an extended amount of time or indefinitely. This is because you may be approved for these benefits while you are waiting for your final disability to be determined. If you desire legal counsel, one attorney can be used for both processes.
For more information, contact local professionals like Iler and Iler.
Share19 October 2016
