There are a few different stages that your initial disability application will go through. It is important to be specific and completely fill out the application before it is submitted. If you're unsure how to do this properly it's recommended you seek help from a social security disability lawyer.

If you're in the San Diego area we recommend to contact Jorgensen Law. The application forms will ask you to describe your disability (physical or mental), treatments you have received, medications you have or are currently taking, treating doctors and their contact information, as well as how your impairment(s) affect your ability to work. You will also be asked your marital status and if you have minor children living at home. Once your application for disability benefits has been submitted, the application will be quickly reviewed to make sure it is complete, meets basic requirements and to look at any current work history. Your application will then be sent to the local Disability Determination Services (DDS) in your state.

At the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR) in San Diego, California, 12 different administrative law judges (ALJ) conduct Social Security Disability (SSD) hearings and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) hearings. Currently, in San Diego, the average wait time for a SSI or SSD hearing is longer than 18 months. Check with your SSI Lawyers to find the exact wait times.

The state office (or the office nearest you in your state, if you live in a large state) will assign a DDS examiner to your case. This person will use the medical information provided in your file to complete a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form and also to evaluate whether you meet disability criteria.

Once enough medical information has been gathered, the DDS will make an initial disability determination. Your case is returned to the SSA who will continue with the appropriate action. If you have been found to be disabled, then the SSA will calculate the benefit amount and pay benefits. If you are found not disabled, your file will be kept in the field office in case you decide to appeal your claim.

Jorgensen Law Social Security Disability Attorney offers the services of committed professionals whose goal is to provide aid and results you can count on. Our disability attorneys are experienced in representing Social Security Disability and Veterans Benefits claims. We work with individuals on their administrative claims and in the courts that hear Social Security and Veterans Benefits claims. The firm's attorneys and staff members stand ready to put their knowledge and skills to use on your behalf as a San Diego wage earner or veteran.

We can help with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) cases, Veterans Administration disability claims, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) cases, traumatic brain injury cases, and many more types of claims.

Related:

• What To Expect From Your Disability Lawyer
• What Makes A Good Social Security Disability Attorney
• Social Security Disability Lawyer Fees
  
• Social Security Disability Appointment Letters
  
• https://www.ssa.gov/