Finding the right SSDI representative can help you get through the Social Security disability backlog faster. But first, you need to know what to look for before making this important decision.

#1: What are your options if you want to hire representation?

Typically, there are two major types of paid SSDI representatives: specialized organizations, which has multiple representatives and specialists experienced in handling SSDI claims in local communities across the country and law firms that may or may not have attorneys solely dedicated to SSDI claims.

#2: How knowledgeable and experienced is the organization in representing individuals applying for SSDI?

You should look for a representative who specializes in SSDI and understands the complexities and nuances of the process. Don’t be fooled if a representative tries to impress you with his or her local influence.

#3: Will the organization help you file the initial application for SSDI?

The myth that you cannot have a representative help you file your initial application for SSDI may stem from the fact that many attorneys only accept SSDI clients after their initial applications are denied.

#4: What specific activities will the representative undertake on your behalf?

It’s important to choose a representative who consistently works the claim on your behalf throughout the process and removes the burden from you. For example, ask:

- Will you contact my doctors and collect or update medical records for my file independently of the SSA?
- Will you regularly query the SSA for status of my claim or confirm my claim file is up-to-date?
Your representative also should be following up with the SSA regularly to ensure your claim is in order.

#5: Does the organization have experience representing someone with your disability?

Not all disabilities are alike-the SSA has specific Disability Impairment Criteria for hundreds of specific conditions, from AIDS to strokes. It’s essential to prepare each case with details and in the language required by the SSA to avoid unnecessary delays, a reduced award or denial of benefits.

#6: How does the organization - and who within the organization - will keep you informed on the progress of your claim?

Disability applicants should make sure that the representation organization they choose will keep them regularly updated on the progress of their application, including timely notices of deadlines, documents required or scheduled hearings.

You shouldn’t select a local representative based on the belief that you’re going to have regular in-person meetings with the representative because you may find after the initial meeting that the representative is no longer available to you. Knowing the communication approach of the representative you choose is essential in making sure you’re not disappointed.

#7: Will you have to attend any hearings?

Approximately one-quarter of SSDI cases proceed to the hearing level before an administrative law judge. However, this might not be necessary if the representative asks for and receives an “on-the-record” decision, where the judge makes a decision based on a review of information in the file.

#8: What is the organization’s success rate?

No organization has a 100-percent track record, but you should look for a representative with a high success rate in gaining SSDI benefits for its clients. This indicates the representative not only can deliver the desired result, but also probably has a powerful credibility in the industry.

#9: How much faster can the organization help you win your award?

There is no guaranteed timeline. External factors, including the growing disability backlog at the SSA in processing claims, can affect the timing. But a representative should know on average how long it takes their customers to get through the various stages of the SSDI process. How fast you get through the process matters because it gives you access sooner to the SSDI award you need to pay for daily living expenses, and could lower your representation fee.

#10: What does it cost?

The SSA determines the maximum fee that any organization can charge for SSDI representation. Currently, it is 25 percent of the retroactive dollar amount awarded, not to exceed $6,000. You should not pay a fee if you don’t receive your SSDI award. Ask a representative about items in addition to representation, such as travel or medical records.

For 25 years, Allsup has been a nationwide provider of Social Security disability, Medicare and workers’ compensation services for individuals, employers and insurance carriers. Their 600 professionals deliver specialized services to people with disabilities and seniors so they lead lives that are as financially secure and as healthy as possible.

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