What Happens If You Don’t Use an SSDI Lawyer for Your Appeal?
Sometimes people try to DIY an SSDI appeal. Whether to save money or just a lack of awareness, they think they can handle the process without a lawyer.
Unfortunately, that’s not the case. The disability application process is so complicated at the appeal level that you really need an attorney in order to succeed. And with the stakes so high, it’s not worth the risk to go it alone.
Here are some of the biggest risks of representing yourself in an SSDI appeal.
You May Miss Certain Requirements and Deadlines
One risk of proceeding without a lawyer is that you may not be aware of all the legal requirements and deadlines involved in the appeals process.
The SSDI appeals process can be complex and confusing, with a lot of rules and regulations. As a result, you can easily miss a deadline or fail to submit the required paperwork in time. If that happens, your appeal may be denied or delayed, costing you valuable time and resources.
Lack of Medical Evidence Without Realizing It
Another risk of not using an SSDI lawyer is that you may not have the medical evidence needed to support your claim.
The SSDI appeals process requires you provide medical evidence that supports your claim of disability. Generally, you include this information in the initial application. So if you’ve been denied, it may mean you may lack some evidence the SSA wants to see.
Without a lawyer, you may not know how to strengthen your application beyond what you’ve already submitted. In other words, you could repeat the same mistake all over again.
The Hearing Process Without Representation
Additionally, without a lawyer, you may be at a disadvantage during any hearings that are part of the appeals process.
Hearings are an opportunity to present evidence and make arguments in support of your claim. Without legal representation, you may struggle to make a strong case in front of a judge.
The Struggle to Deal with the SSA
Finally, proceeding without a lawyer may also limit your ability to negotiate with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Lawyers are experienced in dealing with the SSA on behalf of our clients. Without them, you may struggle to communicate with them or understand the ups and downs of the process. It can be an emotional and fruitless endeavor, and ultimately a waste of time when you don’t have any more time to lose.
Getting an Attorney for Your SSDI Appeal
In short, don’t DIY your SSDI appeal. There are obviously significant risks involved. Perhaps most important, you risk your ability to get the benefits you need.
Our attorneys know this process in and out. We know the personnel involved and everything that can go wrong. And we only win if you do (and only a fraction of your past-due benefits, all future payments go to you).
We’ve helped hundreds of people get the benefits they need, and we can help you, too.
If the SSA denies your application on the first try, you only have 60 days to appeal. You need a lawyer, and you should call our Memphis firm.
Contact us today at 901-327-2100 to get started, or use the contact form on this page.