What paperwork does a disability attorney handle?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 04/21/2025


Applying for disability benefits involves a mountain of paperwork—and mistakes or missing documents can delay or even derail your claim. A disability attorney helps manage all of this paperwork, ensuring it's accurate, complete, and submitted on time. Here’s a breakdown of the key documents they typically handle for you.

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Types of Paperwork a Disability Attorney Handles


Initial Disability Application

Your attorney can help you fill out the initial application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), making sure every question is answered thoroughly and truthfully.


Medical Release Forms (SSA-827)
This form allows the Social Security Administration to request medical records from your doctors. Your attorney ensures this is signed and submitted so there’s no delay in gathering medical evidence.


Work History and Function Reports

These forms detail your past employment and how your condition affects your ability to work and perform daily tasks. Attorneys help complete these to best support your claim.


Appeal Requests

If your claim is denied, your attorney handles all appeal paperwork, including:


  • Request for Reconsideration
  • Request for Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
  • Appeals Council Review if necessary


Hearing Briefs

Before a hearing, attorneys prepare a written legal brief that outlines why you qualify for benefits based on SSA rules, your medical evidence, and work history.


Medical Evidence and Updates

Your attorney collects, organizes, and submits updated medical records, doctors’ opinions, and test results to build a strong case.


Waiver or Overpayment Forms

If you’re dealing with an overpayment, your attorney can handle waiver applications and repayment plan requests as well.

How Hogan Smith Can Help

At Hogan Smith, we take the paperwork off your plate. Our team knows exactly which forms to file, how to avoid common errors, and what documents the SSA is looking for. We ensure:


  • Timely and complete filing
  • Proper medical documentation
  • Accurate work and financial history reporting
  • All appeal paperwork submitted by the deadline

Contact Hogan Smith Today

Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on your health. Reach out today for a free consultation, and we’ll guide you through every step of the disability process—from application to appeal. We're here to make sure nothing slips through the cracks.


Further Reading

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Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

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