Q: What does the application interview for social security disability benefits entail?

A: Your disability application interview will be set up shortly after you submit your application for social security disability. The purpose of the interview is to provide the disability examiner assigned to your case with the basic background about your case and you. If you have a social security attorney, he or she will help you prepare for that interview. If you do not have a social security attorney, then you will want to make sure you are prepared. Some sort of photo identification, like a drivers license or passport, is required. You will have to answer some questions regarding your identity, if you do not currently possess a picture identification card. Provide a certified copy of your birth certificate. Take proof of marriage, if applicable. If you have children, have supporting documents that confirm their status as your dependents. If you served in the military, bring your separation documents. Years of service can often positively affect your benefit payments. Once all the identifying data has been collected, the interviewer will ask you about your work and injury. Be prepared with supporting documentation about your medical condition. Have a list of your doctors. Finally, provide supporting documentation and details about your employment for at least the past decade. Hours worked and salary should be included. Again, if you plan to hire a social security attorney for the application process, it would be wise to meet with him or her prior to the initial interview. If you do not plan to hire a social security attorney, then just make sure you have all the supporting documentation necessary to complete that initial interview. By assuring you have all the required documents, you can decrease the chances that your application will be delayed.

Q: What is the next step, if you are not approved for disability benefits through social security?

A: The next step after a claim for social security disability benefits is not approved is to make a request for reconsideration. You will need to file to have your claim reconsidered within 2 months of when your initial claim was denied. By failing to meet that deadline, you will probably have to file a brand new claim and start all over. Although it is not required that you have a social security attorney, it may be wise to seek the counsel of one now. Most claims for social security disability benefits are not awarded until after the next step, which is a hearing. It is recommended that you have representation of a social security attorney during the hearing process. A claim must first be reconsidered before an appeal for a hearing is made.

Q: What is the biggest mistake made when a claimant is denied social security disability benefits and files an appeal?

A: The major snare for disability benefits appeals is to miss deadlines. All forms to have a case reconsidered must be received no later than 2 months after the initial claim was denied. The expertise and experience offered by a social security attorney can be invaluable, if you are confused about appealing your claim.

This entry was posted on Thursday, October 22nd, 2009 at 7:22 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.