Contacting Social Security Attorneys – when is the right time to make that call. Many times, when clients call for the first time, they are unsure if they should be reaching out to an attorney, are they making the right move. Questions I get include:

Is it the right time to speak to an attorney?
Will contacting an attorney effect how much money I will receive?
What are the steps that I should take before contacting an attorney?

If you are wondering when you should make that call, here are a few tips to help determine if it is the right time for you.

Before Contacting Social Security Attorneys

One of my first questions that I ask of Social Security clients is if they have already applied for benefits. If not, I tell them to go ahead and put in their application first. Once submitted wait to hear back form the Social Security Administration (“SSA”).

My reason behind this is twofold:

You know your condition and current situation better than anyone. You are in the best position to explain it to a SSA case worker.
If approved on the first application, you do not have to share your back pay benefits with an attorney. In other words, you have nothing to lose.

Social Security Application Process

If you have not yet applied benefits, the initial Social Security application process depends on what you are applying for.

If you are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you can go through the initial application process online, here. I always recommend clients print out a finished copy of their application. It helps to have something to reference as the case continues.

If you are applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you cannot apply online. That application must completed either over the phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. To set an appointment to apply for SSI, please call (800) 772-1213. Someone will be able to assist you and set an appointment to complete your application. If you select the phone application option, remember to write down that date and time. Be sure to be by your phone at the agreed-upon time. If you miss their call, you may have to set another appointment.

Already Applied – But Was Denied

If you have already applied, and were denied, you just need a copy of your denial letter. Have a copy of this denial letter ready (especially the last page) ready when you call us. Before an attorney can tell you if we are able to help, we need to know the SSA’s reasons for denying your claim. That information is in that denial letter.

You should also make sure that you have been seeing your doctors as needed for your conditions. Social Security claims rely heavily on medical evidence. Frequent visits to your physicians that document your conditions and the restrictions you have will greatly benefit your case.

If you have all those things, it is time for contacting Social Security Attorneys. Give us a call, we look forward to speaking with you.