Walsh Law PLLC

Social Security Disability Steps

Walsh Law PLLC is the site for users interested in filing a claim for Social Security Disability with the assistance of expert Social Security Disability lawyers.

1. Complete an application for Social Security Disability benefits at your local field office.
2. Complete a phone or in-person interview with your field office claims representative.
3. Work with your disability examiner to obtain the information he or she needs to make a decision. This means for example, assisting them in obtaining records, completing additional questionnaires, or possibly undergoing a medical examination or diagnostic test.
4. Wait to receive a decision of either a grant or denial of benefits.
5. File a request for Reconsideration and await a decision.
6. File a request for a Hearing before an administrative law judge.
7. File a request for an appeal before the Social Security Appeals Council.
8. Begin in the Federal Courts.

It takes several months to receive the initial decision and this in large part depends on access to medical records. If the application and reconsideration are denied, the hearing date on your appeal could be one or more years out.

You should consult with a lawyer or qualified representative before you file the application. It will be important to discuss your medical record and whether you have a proper foundation in there to claim a disability. Your claim will be evaluated by a medical consultant and a lay disability specialist called the disability examiner. They will review your medical records in order to determine whether your application will be granted. You need to know what is in your records and what terms to use to describe your illness that causes you to be disabled. You may need to see your physician again to ask for his assistance before you apply. If you don't use the right terms and your medical record does not evidence that you meet the criteria, you could be denied.