Those who have had their initial application for social security disability benefits as well as their request for reconsideration often fare better when they reach the stage of a disability hearing. About 75 percent of those applying for social security in Missouri are denied benefits but about 60 percent of those who have legal representation during the appeal hearing are awarded benefits.
Of course, the down side is that 40 percent are denied benefits. With odds like this it is extremely important that the applicant do everything in their power to ensure their case is prepared properly. There are a number of things that must be done prior to the hearing:
* Medical records: It may take a number of months to finally get your hearing, in the meantime you must ensure that your most recent medical records are obtained from your physician and forwarded to the office where your hearing is scheduled to take place. The administrative law judge does not want to see outdated medical records nor does the disability examiner. It is in your best interest to ensure that the medical evidence supporting your disability is no older than 90 days. If you gather the information too early, by the time you have your hearing they may already be outdated. Fortunately, when you are represented by an attorney with in-depth knowledge of Social Security in Missouri he or she will know when to get your records updated.
* Source statement: It is important that one of the physicians that have been treating you provides a statement which specifies your condition, limitations and the long term prognosis. As the statement is issued by a physician that has a history of treating you the comments included in the statement are deemed true and accurate.
When preparing for your disability hearing your attorney will determine why your initial claim was denied and become familiar with your work history and medical treatment. Visit us at http://grundydisabilitygroup.com.
