The Social Security Disability Claims Process

Do I Need a Lawyer to Apply for Social Security Disability?

As an attorney who has helped disabled workers in Florida obtain disability benefits from Social Security since 1992, many of my clients are surprised when I tell them they don’t need a lawyer — at least initially.

The truth is, you don’t need a lawyer to apply for Social Security Disability benefits. You can apply on your own at your local Social Security office. Here are some suggestions I would tell you free of charge during an initial consultation at my law office in New Port Richey:

• List all impairments that affect your ability to work, not just your main problem. Social Security will consider the effect of all of your impairments on your ability to work.
• Don’t exaggerate or minimize your disability.
• Provide Social Security with your medical records if you can. If you are unable to get these records yourself, provide Social Security with the names and addresses of your physicians so they can request your medical records.
• Cooperate fully with Social Security when completing your application. Sometimes, Social Security will send you to a physician for an evaluation. Be sure to attend any of these evaluations.

If your application for disability benefits is accepted, that’s great news. However, is your claim is denied, don’t give up. The vast majority of initial applications for Social Security disability benefits are initially denied. However, you have a right to appeal a denied claim. That is the point where I think you will need the help of an experienced Social Security disability lawyer. With an attorney’s help, many denied claims end up succeeding.

Learn more about Social Security Disability appeals.

Free Lawyer Consultation

To discuss your Social Security disability case with me, attorney Joseph Rooth, call 727-849-3400 or fill out the contact form on this site. With offices in New Port Richey, Spring Hill, Seminole and Clearwater, I represent clients throughout the Tampa Bay and central gulf coast area of Florida.