APPLICATION

The process begins with filing an application for benefits with the Social Security Administration (SSA). This can be done online, by phone, by mail, or in person at an SSA “field office.” There are multiple SSA field offices throughout South Alabama, including in Mobile, Andalusia, Alexander City, Dothan, Fairhope, Jackson, Selma, and Montgomery.

The application must be accompanied by a significant amount of employment, tax, medical and other documentation. The application and supporting materials are then sent from the field office to what is known as a Disability Determination Service (DDS) office where the initial evaluation and determination will be made regarding your claim. There are two DDS offices in Alabama, one in Montgomery and one in Mobile.

If the DDS office approves your claim, you will begin receiving your benefits thereafter as long as you remain disabled. However, more than half of initial requests for disability benefits are denied. When that happens, the claimant must move to the next step in the process.

REQUEST FOR HEARING BEFORE AN ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE

If your claim for benefits is denied, you can appeal that decision by requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) at the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR). ODAR has hearing offices in Mobile, Montgomery, Birmingham and Florence.

The ALJ will review your file and a hearing will be held. At the hearing, evidence will be presented and testimony will be heard from you, your doctors, medical and vocational experts that may testify at your request or the request of the ALJ, and other witnesses. It can feel, and very much acts, like a trial.

APPEALS COUNCIL REVIEW

If the ALJ has denied your claim for benefits, you can appeal the ALJs decision to the Social Security Appeals Council. The Appeals Council does not evaluate the merits of your claim but simply determines whether the ALJ made an error in ruling on your claim.

DISTRICT COURT CASE

If the Appeals Council denies your request for review, which happens most of the time, you can then appeal the decision to the U.S. District Court.

Needless to say, the process of seeking and obtaining benefits can be lengthy, time-consuming, costly and exhausting. While you are trying to recover from your disability or obtain the care, treatment and resources you need, the last thing you need is the uncertainty and headaches of complicated legal procedures. At Green Disability Law, we use our extensive experience and success with Social Security Disability matters to handle everything for you, every step of the way.