Q: Is it true that there are no deadlines for your social security disability application to be reviewed?
A: Unlike with other government benefits programs, there is no set deadline within which an application for social security disability must be initially reviewed. That being said, a decision on an application under initial review usually takes 3 or 4 months. In spite of the lack of mandatory timelines for the first review step for an application, it is important to note that there are deadlines for appeals. Missing a deadline for an appeal or reconsideration will have a negative impact on your social security disability case. In some cases, you may have to start at step one all over again. If your case was not approved after the initial review process and you plan to appeal, you must file it within 60 days of the date of your denial. And simply putting it in the mailbox on the 60th day will not cut it. You need to make sure that Social Security has received your paperwork and appeal within that deadline. The administration does grant you an additional 5 days to get the appeal submitted to give you some lee weigh for mailing time. But you do not want to take a gamble with your claim. The best course of action is to submit that appeal as soon as you receive notification that your claim was not approved for benefits.
Q: Can you do anything to have your social security disability claim heard before an administrative judge more quickly?
A: It can be tricky to try to speed up the hearing process for your claim. That being said, there some steps you can take to improve your chances. If your financial circumstances are putting you in a difficult situation and you are in jeopardy of losing your home or medical care, you can send a letter of dire need to the office handling your hearing. Be certain to include proof of your financial situation with the letter you send. Duplicates of overdue utility and mortgage notifications will lend credibility to your dire need request. Your case may be expedited if the office determines your financial situation dictates it. Another option is to request an on the record review of your case. An on the record review is when your claim is reviewed by the Office of Hearings and Appeals prior to the actual date for your case to be heard before an administrative judge. Most experts do not recommend an OTR review, unless the medical condition or injury of the claimant has worsened. The last option to try to have your social security disability case expedited is to contact your Senator or Congressman. If you plan on trying to expedite the hearing process for your case, it would be wise to contact a social security attorney.
Q: Are there witnesses for a social security disability hearing?
A: Disability cases are decided based on medical evidence. Witnesses are allowed during the hearing, but it is up to the judge for your case to decide if the testimonies of witnesses will be used. Expert witnesses presenting medical and employment background are often utilized in hearings. More articles Social security attorney ... Tampa social security lawyers ...

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