When you file a Social Security disability claim in Indiana, who you have fighting for you on your side can make a significant impact on the likelihood you are successful. Speak with an Indiana Social Security lawyer who can help move you through the backed-up Social Security system more quickly.
Currently, more than 1.8 million people are waiting to find out whether or not they will get their Social Security disability benefits. On average, that wait takes 2 to 4 years, so entering the system can be frustrating and confusing for those claimants who are not aware of what options they can pursue to receive help with the process.
Selecting a Lawyer for Your Social Security Disability Claim in Indiana
When you select a lawyer to represent you, it’s important that you choose someone who not only makes you feel more comfortable about the process, but who also has sufficient knowledge and experience about Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) and its respective claims process.
As far as fees, the Social Security Administration places a cap on the amount that an attorney or any organization can charge for SSDI representation. At the time, that limit is 25% of the past amount that is awarded, which should not exceed a total of $6,000. For instance, if you are awarded a $1,200 monthly benefit and there is a past award for 12 months when you should have received those benefits but didn’t, the fee would be 25% of $14,400 (12 x $1,200), or $3,600. You should ask a potential representative, however, about other fees, such as filing expenses.
Questions You Should ask an Indiana Social Security Lawyer
Before you select a lawyer, however, you should ask certain questions about his or her experience with cases like yours. Questions you should ask include the following:
- How many years of experience do you have with Social Security disability claims?
- Are you a member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimant Representatives (NOSSCR)?
- Will I be represented by an attorney?
- Will I be helped with all of the forms necessary to file a claim?
- Can you represent me in the appeals process, or will I be referred to someone else?
- How do you get most of your cases – through referrals or advertising?
- How will you prepare me for my Social Security disability hearing?
- Will you, independently of the SSA, speak with my medical providers to update my medical records and confirm they are up to date?
- How often will you check with the SSA on the status of my claim?
How an attorney answers these questions should give you more information on whether or not he or she is well-suited to handle the demands of your Social Security disability claim in Indiana. Extensive Social Security claim-related experience, hands-on case management, thorough preparation and a strong record are all desirable qualities in an Indiana Social Security lawyer.
Whether you recently filed your application for disability benefits or you have already been denied, contact an Indiana Social Security lawyer who has handled cases like yours before and can help you make sense out of an otherwise confusing system.