Henson Fuerst’s informative video titled “Social Security Disability: What NOT to do” has received over 100,000 views on YouTube. This huge milestone confirms how much local North Carolina residents are in need of help with understanding the Social Security Disability Benefits process and pitfalls.
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be long, challenging, and often downright frustrating. Every day, thousands of Americans try unsuccessfully to receive the Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits they need. This is why it is very important to hire an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer for help.
According to the Social Security Administration, the number of disabled beneficiaries has increased from 1,812,786 in 1970 to 10,261,268 in 2014. This sharp increase indicates how competitive this process is, and how challenging it can be to get your claim approved. The SSD application process requires hard work, determination and diligence. If you make one wrong move during the process, it could jeopardize your chances of receiving Social Security benefits.
In the video, Attorney and Partner David Henson explain to viewers how to avoid certain harmful behaviors that could derail their claim for SSD benefits.
Below is a list of the top five behaviors that could cause the Social Security Administration to deny your claim:
- Don’t get medical care for your conditions. Medical records act as the foundation of any Social Security Disability case. Judges take whatever is written in your medical records as the “Gospel Truth.” If something is not included in your medical record, judges assume it doesn’t exist. If you do not go to the doctor for medical treatment, judges don’t believe you were ever really sick or injured. This assumption is often unfair, but without documented medical proof of your ongoing medical care, you will lose your case in all likelihood.
- Do drugs or alcohol. When applying for SSD benefits, you will not be able to hide a substance abuse problem involving drugs or alcohol. If you are using drugs or drinking alcohol to excess, your doctor will know, you will be tested, and it will be noted in your medical records. However, you can still receive SSD Benefits as long as you are actively getting treatment. If you go to abstinence meetings, rehab, and do everything in your power to stay clean, your claim could still be approved. Remember, Social Security judges have very little sympathy for people who don’t want to help themselves. They will deny the claim of any client they suspect to be an active user of drugs or alcohol.
- Break the law, or end up in jail. Criminal activity is a great way to help the judge stamp your file as rejected. Judges deplore criminal behavior. With so many Americans applying for Social Security Disability Benefits, and limited funds available, judges will look for any reason to choose one applicant over another. If you get a DWI, are arrested after getting in a fight, or commit any type of criminal act, it could easily destroy your case.
- Don’t keep your lawyer up-to-date on your situation. Your lawyer acts as your eyes, ears and voice within the legal system. They need to know what you know, understand any changes in your medical situation and hear what you are doing regarding employment. We’re on your side, and we can advise you on how to proceed if there are changes in your life or illness. If you keep secrets from your attorney, it makes it impossible to represent your case properly. Failing to keep your lawyer up-to-date on your situation is a great way to tank your case.
- Miss deadlines or appointments. It’s hard enough to work through a Social Security Disability claim even when you play by the rules. If you don’t show up to a hearing, blow off a consultative exam, or fail to file your appeal within the required timeline, you are virtually asking to be denied. Second chances are rare, and courts take deadlines and appointments very seriously.
Going through the Social Security Disability process is not easy, and you may have a lot of questions about your claim. That is why Henson Fuerst is here to help you every step of the way. If you or a loved one is in need of Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, call Henson Fuerst at 919-781-1107.
Even if you have already applied and your benefits were denied, we may be able to help. Or if you are unable to work, let us help you get the SSD benefits you deserve.
Call today or fill out a free online contact form to receive a FREE consultation with one of our experienced, compassionate North Carolina Social Security Disability attorneys. At Henson Fuerst, we will fight to help you secure the benefits you deserve. You will never pay an attorney’s fee up front, and we don’t get paid until you do.
Call Henson Fuerst, Because Your Case Matters
