MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY (Huntsville)

Question:  What conditions qualify for Social Security disability?

Answer:  Any medical condition may qualify for SSDI benefits if it is severe enough to prevent working.  An impairment may be physical or psychological.

Question:  What's meant by an exertional impairment? 

Answer:  An exertional impairment is one that restricts your ability to stand, walk, lift, push or pull.  Non-exertional impairments may include psychological issues (depression, anxiety, panic attacks) or postural limitations (inability to sit, stoop, bend, kneel, crawl, etc.).

Question:  I was denied and I'm now waiting on a hearing.  Why does it take so long to get a hearing?

Answer:  The long wait is due to the severe backlog at the Social Security hearing office.  There are too many people trying to get a hearing and not enough judges to hear cases quickly.

Question:  I've been told that new medical evidence cannot be considered at my hearing.  Is this true?

Answer:  No, it is not.  At your hearing the judge will consider all the medical evidence, including new evidence that you have submitted according to the rules.  Unless an exception is granted, evidence must be submitted at least 5 business days prior to the hearing.  That's really the only restriction about new evidence at hearings.

Question:  I am afraid that if I hire someone to represent me, then I don't get any benefits, I will have to pay the lawyer a big legal bill out of my pocket.  Is there a way to avoid this?

Answer:  This cannot happen.  Social Security law does not permit a representative to charge you a fee unless you (a) win your claim or appeal and (b) collect past due benefits.  Any legal fee must be deducted from the past due benefits.  If you don't receive past due benefits there is no fee. So, no need to worry.

Question:  My claim was just denied.  What is the time limit to file an appeal or ask for a hearing?

Answer:  Good question.  The time limit (very strict) is 60 days from the date of your denial letter.  You can add 5 days for mailing time, so really, you have 65 days, but not one day longer.
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The Forsythe Firm
7027 Old Madison Pike NW
Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806
PHONE (256) 799-0297

SOCIAL SECURITY JUSTICE - WEBSITE