Why you need experienced legal help when seeking SSI benefits

On Behalf of | Nov 9, 2018 | Supplemental Security Income

New Jersey residents who are blind, disabled, 65 or older and meet the basic requirements to get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) do not always get approved for the benefits. Frequently, this is because they have made some type of mistake when applying, did not have legal help to deal with the process or hired the wrong attorney. Believing that one attorney and law firm is just as competent as another is a costly mistake that can deprive an otherwise deserving applicant of the SSI-related benefits they so badly need. Knowing why to get legal assistance with their SSI case is crucial to the entire process.

For many, applying for SSI benefits is confusing terrain. Attentive legal advice can make the difference not just with the application process, but also with an appeal, if one is necessary and the simple matter of giving the applicant peace of mind as the case moves forward. Some might get poor advice from those who present themselves as experts or claim to have experience in SSI cases. They might apply for the wrong benefits, not have the proper evidence or make other mistakes that are costly.

Even when a person has gotten the benefits, it does not mean they are permanent. They can stop for a variety of reasons and getting them reinstated can be complex. This too requires legal help. There is no substitute for experience and understanding underlying factors such as how the Social Security Administration assesses as case, the way an Administrative Law Judge oversees a case and when and how to move forward with an appeal are all part of it.

It can be a fearful and worrisome time when a person is afflicted with an illness, condition or disabling problem, and they are not sure how they are going to make ends meet for themselves and their family. A law firm that is caring and sympathetic to that plight and simultaneously has the experience and competence to deal with a Supplemental Security Income case can make all the difference and should be called before taking any step to get SSI.

FindLaw Network