With average wait times growing for first applications, choosing representation can set your claim apart with expert assistance and preparation
Belleville, Ill. – June 25, 2009 – The average time to process initial Social Security disability claims is increasing by 20 percent this year
1, creating even more difficulty for people with severe disabilities to apply for and receive the benefits to which they’re entitled, according to Allsup, which represents tens of thousands of people in the
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) application and hearing process each year.
“Don’t wait for Social Security to tell you ‘no’ before you get help. There are several advantages for those people who choose a representative early in the process,” said Mike Stein, assistant vice president of claims at Allsup. “Mistakes when applying for disability benefits can make the SSDI process a long and lonely one if you don’t have representation.”
“Those who apply for benefits with Allsup’s expert assistance may be more likely to bypass the long wait and get their
SSDI benefits even earlier,” Mr. Stein said. “Typically, 54 percent of those who use Allsup will be approved at the application level, but only 35 percent will be approved if they go it alone.”
Application Backlog is Growing
The average length of time for an initial application to be processed is expected to grow from 129 days in FY 2009 to 156 days in FY 2010, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
One factor in the longer wait times is the increased number of initial Social Security disability applications. Last year, the SSA forecast 493,000 initial applications pending in the disability process for fiscal year 2009. In May 2009, the agency projected the actual level of pending initial disability claims will reach 833,000—nearly double the original forecast.2
SSDI is a federally mandated insurance program overseen by the SSA that operates separately from the retirement and SSI programs. SSDI provides
monthly benefits to individuals who are under full retirement age (age 65 or older) and who can no longer work because of a disability (injury, illness or condition) that is expected to last for at least 12 months or is terminal. Individuals must have paid FICA taxes to be eligible. More details are provided in the
SSDI Overview on Allsup.com.
See Real Advantages with Early Representation
There are several advantages to choosing a representative who can help with any stage of your SSDI claim, including the first application, said Mr. Stein.
“Most representatives actually decline to assist people at the application level, preferring to take on claims only at the appeals level,” said Stein. “But if you’ve never been through the SSDI process before, applying for benefits can be a bit more complicated than it appears.”
The SSA follows a five-step sequential process to evaluate applications for disability benefits. The federal agency makes decisions based on medical documentation, work history, age and other factors. Consider the following benefits by starting out with representation at the beginning of your SSDI application:
- Find out before you apply if you are likely to qualify for SSDI benefits. A representative such as Allsup can help you quickly evaluate your work history and medical information to determine before you apply if you are likely to qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Contact the Allsup Disability Evaluation Center at (800) 279-4357 for a free SSDI evaluation, or request one online at Allsup.com.
- You are more likely to get your SSDI benefits faster. Fifty-four percent of Allsup claimants are awarded benefits at the initial application, compared with 35 percent for the national average. “This means you are more likely to get your SSDI benefits and faster,” said Mr. Stein.
- Receive specialized expertise and hands-on help from the beginning. Allsup professionals provide expert, knowledgeable help in completing the application and Activities of Daily living forms, hands-on assistance to gather your records and complete your application. “It’s important to understand the details in your documentation, including work history and medical records,” said Mr. Stein. “Our professionals relieve you of the hassle of collecting your medical records, and they understanding which details are required from your doctor to make the claim as accurate and thorough as possible.”
- Avoid waiting in Social Security telephone and office lines. Allsup professionals handle the paperwork, answer your questions and submit your claim. Because of Allsup’s success on behalf of claimants, more than eight out of 10 Allsup claimants never need to visit an SSA office.
- You are more likely to get your benefits. “Our 98 percent success rate is one of the biggest reasons people choose Allsup’s representation,” said Mr. Stein. This rate applies to customers who complete the process with Allsup.
For thousands of people who have already attempted their SSDI application on their own, the denial is frustrating, but still an opportunity to get representation.
With Allsup, it’s less likely that you will have to attend a hearing about your SSDI benefits. But if you do, an experienced Allsup representative will prepare you for and represent you in the hearing, no matter where you live. About 70 percent of Allsup customers do not have to attend a hearing because Allsup requests an on-the-record decision and presents the judge with a well-developed claim file prior to a hearing.
Additionally, since Allsup customers are more likely to avoid a hearing and receive their benefits through an on-the-record decision—our experience shows an applicant may receive their benefits up to 10 months faster.
These are just a few of the advantages that people with severe disabilities realize when they choose Allsup for SSDI representation early in the process. Keep in mind that Allsup does not charge any fees until and unless someone’s SSDI claim is awarded, and that fee is set by the SSA.
“Our customers count on Allsup to be their SSDI expert,” explained Mr. Stein. “They can turn over the worry, stress and hassle with their Social Security disability application to Allsup.”
If you’re not certain you are eligible for SSDI based on your work history, contact the Disability Evaluation Center at (800) 279-4357.
1-Social Security Administration, Justification of Estimates for Appropriations Committee, May 2009. http://www.ssa.gov/budget.
2-Social Security Administration, FY 2010 Budget Overview, May 2009. http://www.ssa.gov/budget.
ABOUT ALLSUP
Allsup, Belleville, Ill., is a leading nationwide provider of financial and related services to people with disabilities. Celebrating its 25
th anniversary in 2009, Allsup has helped more than 120,000 people receive their entitled Social Security Disability Insurance and Medicare benefits. Allsup employs more than 580 professionals who deliver services directly to consumers and their families, or through their employers and long-term disability insurance carriers. For more information, visit
www.Allsup.com.