Social Security Disability Advice Group

Does anyone have recommendations for first time application for Disability in the Detroit area? There are so many ads for attorneys I don't know where to begin. Any advice?

I don't live in Detroit,but I recommend getting a local attorney who is in your area who specializes in SS disability and NOT one of those that you see on TV that handle cases in all states.

Thanks so much for the advice Elvis-you're so kind. I will keep that in mind.

Yes get a local lawyer do not get binder and binder they are like call Sam you know what I'm talking about if you are from Detroit area

Many lawyers will not take a case unless you have been denied. Many say no need for one on first application anyway.

Look up your disabilities at ssa.gov in the Blue Book to see if you meet the criteria and to know what medical tests needed. At SSA.GOV also find the "How we determine if you are disabled" steps.

Make sure your docs are supportive and records are in line with what's needed. Fill out the on-line application very carefully and taking your time. Be sure everything is consistent and don't exagerate anything.

Ask lots of questions here before you send the application

Good luck. A first time app decision takes 3-4 months. If you have to appeal it cantake years.

Thank you for all the good info! I've not been well so sorry for the late response. i did speak to a local attorney who basically told me the same thing. I'm waiting on some more testing my doctor ordered before applying and in the meantime researching and reading as much as I can.

I'm from the Detroit area and I was told that if you apply without a lawyer your more then likely to get denied, that is why I got one from the very start. She looked over some of my medical records and sent for other ones before she determined if she would take my case. If I do get denied then she will handle my appeal and I don't pay unless we win.

According to SSA stats the initial app denial rate is about the same for with/without representation.

Things to do when applying:

Make sure your doctors are supportive

make sure your medical records are in order

Check SSA blue book for expected tests for your disability

Fill out the app very carefully. Be careful not to be inconsistent. Don't exaggerate.

Before submitting app, review it and have a friend or spouse review.

Don't add extraneous info to app

provide only your primary, specialists for your condition, and places that did relevant testing

Most attorneys won't take your case untill you are denied the first time

I know a lot of atty want take your case on the initial app. But there are some here in my town that will help you fill out app and file. I don't know how after my atty said it was not allowed. I put on my app that I take cymbalta and had to go to assigned CE Physitric(sp) by SSDI. Also had to go to the assigned DR. I don't know why on that either. I have a PCP,Rehumy and Ortho. Records were up to date, so I don't know why that happen. I just went. Well the CE dr said that I was carrying a big purse, which was my sister grandchild diaper bag. Was not heavy at all nor full. The baby was alseep in her arms. She also stated that I was not taking my meds which was not true. If I did not take my meds I would lose it. They say to list all your health problem. Well there was one diag I had called Too many toes. That does not me that I had extra toes it is a medical term for Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD). Which most of the time call for surgery if bad and it did. But the person that had my file did not even know what the term mean. Then it was said that I had healed well from the surgery. Had not had any surgery at that time. Don't know how they came up with that answer. So I say be careful of your diag's listing. They want proof of everything you list. Although I had no problem with my listing. Beside having to have my DR write in my note explaing. For instance I have Hashimoto Thyroid, well I am on meds and have been for years and the meds keep it under control. Although they say list all diag. I wish I had not listed it. But it is in my medical records. Don't lie on app. Answer what ever they ask. Just make sure you can prove all. If you can not sit, stand, walk a long distant put it on there. Problem Lifting, put it on there. Answer the question the best you can. Don't leave any line blank. If it does not apply to you say that.

I did get a atty out of state but, did not know that at the time. They do have a sub office here. I was not told that till later. If my case goes before the judge. I will be reasonable for the atty traveling fee. It's my fault I did not understand the lanuage nor that they are not here in this office. So it is really best to go to their office. Another thing I have read many post saying that a atty want take your case if they don't think you have a chance. Well my atty never asked me any question. I just got the package over night to sign. So I know as far as that statement it was not true on my part. But so far I do think I choose a pretty good law firm. Good luck, I hope I helped and did not confuse you.