Who Decides If I’m Disabled?
The question posed by this Web page title (“Who decides if I’m disabled?”) may seem to have obvious answers at first consideration. However, upon further exploration of a disability case, it can become more complicated. Who, in fact, is most authoritative when it comes to a worker’s disability status?
- The worker himself or herself?
- The worker’s supervisor, who observes the consequences of disability?
- The person’s doctor?
- A social worker or case worker?
- An administrative law judge?
Professional Help Improves Your Odds
The most promising pathway to a clear answer, for many people with disabling medical conditions, comes through close collaboration with an experienced Social Security Disability (SSD) lawyer. At The Law Offices of Jeffery A Rabin & Associates, Ltd., we have helped many clients establish their disabled status and begin collecting SSD benefits in accordance with the rules of the program. (Remember: SSD is not a government handout. It is an insurance program that happens to be administered by the government.)
Helping You Obtain The Medical Proof You Need
Your doctor’s testimony is crucial. However, he or she cannot “get you disability” benefits on his or her own. Ultimately, the decision will be made by a Social Security Administration adjudicator, an administrative law judge (ALJ) or a judge in a federal court if your case is appealed. Evidence presented through your medical records will be a strong component of the evidence presented in any of these forums. Many applicants have lost their claims based on their answers to an “activities of daily living” (ADL) questionnaire.
The earlier we become involved as advisors in your SSD application process, the more helpful we can be in guiding you. We can advise you about how to be honest and thorough in your communication with your doctor and in your answers on the ADL questionnaire with a clear understanding of how your words may be interpreted.
Contact Us For Guidance On Determination Of Disability In Chicago And Throughout Illinois — Disability And Social Security Income Lawyers Of The Law Offices of Jeffery A Rabin & Associates, Ltd.
We offer well-honed services of skilled and experienced attorneys to help you navigate the SSD process. To schedule a free initial consultation, call 847-299-0008 or 888-529-0600 toll free, or simply contact us online.
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you will owe no money up front and no hourly fees. Our fees must be approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and comply with SSA guidelines. We file our fee agreement with the SSA in every case.