Most initial applications for disability Social Security Benefits in Bellingham WA and elsewhere are denied. Usually, this doesn’t mean that the applicant is not deserving of disability benefits, but that something was missing or erroneous in the documentation. That is why applicants are encouraged to have professional legal assistance when they plan to file a claim, and especially when they want to appeal a denial.
Dealing With Disability
Social Security Benefits in Bellingham WA help people deal with the long-term effects of a serious injury, illness or chronic health disorder. The disability may be permanent or temporary, but it must be expected to last for many months in order to qualify for these federal benefits. Common examples of qualified individuals include those who became paralyzed in an accident, who have developed congestive heart failure, or who have disabling symptoms from rheumatoid arthritis.
Full or Partial Recovery
Sometimes people are expected to recover from the disabling condition, but it may take more than a year. In other instances, they will never fully recover, but they will be well enough at some point to work full-time again. Retraining may be necessary if they can no longer do the job they had held for many years. They may need to sit throughout the day now instead of being on their feet.
The Risk of Financial Trouble
Without disability benefits, many individuals are at risk of serious financial problems. They start having to use their savings or their credit cards to pay bills. Food benefits may be available as well as some fuel assistance for heat and electricity, but those sources are not intended to pay for the entire amount a person needs. With so many U.S. residents living paycheck to paycheck, any delays in benefit approvals can cause a great deal of trouble.
Attorneys with an organization such as Allen Law Firm provide knowledgeable legal representation to make sure the initial application is complete and will not be denied. If the client has already been dealt the blow of a denial, the attorney will file a reapplication or an appeal, and then represent the client at any scheduled hearings. Find us on Facebook!
