Call us 24/7 at 1-800-THE-FIRM
(800-843-3476)
We go to work for you...When you can't

Memphis, Tennessee Social Security Disability Lawyers

Applying For Social Security Disability Benefits?

 

The Social Security Administration does not promise anyone that they will receive Social Security disability benefits. Typical of government bureaucracy, the disability application process is difficult and frustrating to most people. But if you are unable to work due to a disability, receiving either SSDI or SSI  is probably your only hope to be able to pay bills or even buy food. A good Social Security disability attorney can be your best asset when applying for or appealing disability benefits. Fill out the form now for a FREE evaluation or to request assistance.

Eligibility for  Social Security Disability Benefits

Unfortunately, the burden of proof for eligibility for disability benefits lies on the applicant. Essentially you should be able to show that you have one or more physical or mental disabilities that prevents you from holding a job gainfully. You do not need to prove that you are fully disabled or unable to work at all. People who are not completely disabled (and even some that are) usually see their disability application denied, but then have the opportunity to appeal that decision several times. Due to the difficult process and subjective nature of the decisions, many people hire disability lawyers to help them. You can receive a FREE evaluation by filling our the form on this page. In addition, our disability attorneys do not charge a fee if you do not win your benefits.

Social Security Disability Application Process

    1. The Cochran Form can provide you with a FREE disability evaluation. We do not charge a fee if you do not win your benefits, so you have nothing to lose by contacting us. Be sure to fill out the form on this page as your first step toward receiving your disability benefits.

    2. Visit the Social Security Administration's website and complete the online disability application. If you are unable to complete the application online or need a downloadable application, you should contact your closest SSA office and request assistance with the disability application. Office locations can also be found on the Administration's website. It may take about 20 minutes to complete the online application.

3. A couple of weeks after your application is completed you will receive a packet by mail requesting more detailed personal information. Usually the SSA will want this packet returned within ten days to continue your application.

4. A couple weeks after the first packet, you will receive another packet requesting more information. These forms focus on your disability and how it affects you. Again, you must follow the deadline, making sure to have the information returned within just a few days.

    5. Once all of your information has been returned, the SSA will begin contacting the doctors you listed in the paperwork to request your medical records. Depending on how fast your doctors respond will determine the time until the next step.

    6. If the SSA examiner assigned to your case is unsure of your condition, has additional medical questions or is unable to obtain information from your doctors the Administration will request that you visit one of their doctors or undergo some tests. In most cases the costs associated with these visits are covered by the SSA to include mileage if you have a distance to drive. Failure to appear at any of these appointments could seriously jeopardize your chances of approval.

    7. After the examiner feels that they have enough information to make a decision on your disability application they will send you a letter with your decision. From time of your initial application to receipt of this letter may be as little as 75 days to as much as 8 months or longer.

If Your Disability Application Was Denied

About 65% of applicants receive a denial letter the first time around. Many people accept this letter as fact  and go on with their lives. We like to say that the fight has just started!

You can appeal the denial within 60 days. The letter will tell you the reason your disability application was denied. Your appeal should address that concern. In addition, if you have not already hired a Social Security disability attorney, now would be a great time to do so. You can fill out the form on this page to receive a FREE case evaluation. You will never receive a fee from us if you do not win your benefits.

Click HERE for more on how to appeal a Social Security disability denial.

Local Social Security disability attorneys located in Memphis, Tennessee

Denials Removed. Get Your Benefits Approved!
Fill out the form now.

You have nothing to lose. There is no fee unless you win your benefits. Fill out the form today to get started.