Lawyers Help Avoid Common Mistakes That Cause Delays

Many claims are delayed—or denied—due to simple errors such as:

• Incomplete applications
• Missing medical records
• Missed deadlines
• Inconsistent or vague descriptions of your condition

A disability lawyer knows exactly what the SSA is looking for and will ensure your application is accurate, complete, and timely, which helps your claim move forward without unnecessary setbacks.

Lawyers Can Ensure All Medical Evidence Is Submitted Promptly

Medical documentation is the backbone of any disability claim. A lawyer can:

• Request and organize your complete medical records
• Submit relevant test results, physician notes, and treatment histories
• Prepare Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) forms to clearly demonstrate your limitations

Submitting a well-documented case from the start helps the SSA make a decision faster—especially when the evidence clearly supports your claim.

They Know How to Communicate With the SSA Effectively

Experienced disability attorneys know how to work with the SSA and Disability Determination Services (DDS). They can:

• Follow up on your application status
• Respond to SSA requests quickly and correctly
• Resolve issues that might stall your claim (such as lost records or scheduling conflicts)

While they can’t force the SSA to decide faster, lawyers can help prevent avoidable delays and move your case along.

In Special Cases, They Can Request an Expedited Review

A lawyer may be able to request a Compassionate Allowances (CAL) or Dire Need designation for your case, which can lead to a quicker decision if:

• You have a severe or terminal condition that meets Compassionate Allowance criteria
• You're facing homelessness, lack of food, or inability to afford necessary medical care

Lawyers know how to properly file these requests and present your case for expedited processing when eligible.

Appeals Move Faster With Legal Help

If your initial claim is denied, a lawyer can help speed up the appeals process by:

• Submitting your appeal immediately and correctly
• Gathering new or updated medical evidence fast
• Preparing you thoroughly for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

Since hearings often take over a year to be scheduled, it’s critical to get everything right the first time—and that’s where legal support really pays off.