Social Security disability benefits can be difficult to get. The application process can be time consuming and is heavy on paperwork. Many individuals with signs of pain and fatigue wonder if they can get Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). There are some critical steps to increase your chances of successfully winning your claim with the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Step One: Diagnosis
Social Security looks to have a true diagnosis of an individual’s “medically determinable impairment.” You must have the signs, symptoms, and medical records supporting your situation. A qualified doctor that uses accepted practices to note your limitations and prognosis is critical. Social Security does not know your doctor, so your doctor’s input is very important when you apply for benefits.

Step Two: Qualified Legal Guidance
Having a qualified, Social Security Disability attorney increases your chances of getting your much-needed SSDI approved. An experienced attorney is skilled in getting the documentation completed accurately and has the expertise should your case go to a hearing in front of a federal administrative law judge. The Social Security Administration and its examiners review many claims a day and have little emotional investment to understand the extent of your situation. Having legal representation will help overcome the difficulties in getting SSDI.

Also, most SSDI attorneys work on a contingency basis, so you won’t have to pay any hefty fees up front. When you are granted SSDI benefits, up to 25 percent of it will be taken for the attorney’s fees as approved by the Social Security Administration. If no benefits are obtained, the attorney will not be paid, so the process protects your pocketbook.

Step Three: Periodic Disability Reviews
Continuing disability reviews happen every three to seven years. Even if you were initially given benefits because of a permanent disability, you must still meet the definition of disabled. The SSA will want updated records and documentation to verify your condition. And, should you work and earn more than $1,000 a month, the SSDI benefits most likely will end. If there is a sudden change in your medical or employment status, you will want to contact a qualified attorney to understand your rights.

Overall, Social Security disability attorneys help clients determine their eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance and, separately, Supplemental Security Income. These two programs are distinct as SSDI pays benefits to you if you have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income pays benefits to disabled persons with little to no income.

In Tampa, Social Security Disability attorney Robert Alston has more than a decade of experience successfully representing clients before the Social Security Administration. Even though SSDI and SSI are different programs, he will analyze what is the best course of action given your situation and finances. Alston is skilled in assisting disabled children and adults, veterans, and the aged and blind with their disability concerns.