Is an Authorized Representative for Disability Claim Necessary?

Perhaps you have recently or are just about to file a claim for disability with Social Security and you have seen the phrase "authorized representative" on some forms and now you find yourself wondering "is an authorized representative for a disability claim necessary?"

What is an authorized representative?

An authorized representative for disability claims is a person that you give authority to speak on your behalf and represent your interests as you pursue your disability claim. An example of an authorized representative for a disability claim is a licensed attorney.

Is an authorized representative necessary?

Only if you want the best results.

Seriously, you have the right to have an authorized representative help you through the complex and lengthy process of applying for Social Security disability. As long as you are competent and can handle your own filing, an authorized representative is not required, but only you can decide if one is necessary.

What does an authorized representative do?

It depends on the level of expertise of your authorized representative. If you select someone to be your authorized representative who has no experience with disability claims (such as the relative or friend who always helps you fill out forms) then what they can "do" for is fairly limited; remember without expertise they might leave out important information from your file which can make the decision process take longer, they can accidentally give incorrect information and they won't know how to best position your case if you have a hearing.

Authorized representatives for disability claims with experience, such as an attorney will be able to "do" quite a bit for you, including:

• help evaluate if you have a valid disability claim
• help prepare your application, and file it electronically
• gather necessary medical reports
• make sure required forms are completed (such as your medications list)
• coach you to prepare for a hearing if one is needed

• represent your rights throughout the entire process

Get Legal Help

Applying for disability benefits is really not a do it yourself type of project; while you can do it yourself you will likely be much happier with the results when you use an experienced professional to assist and guide you. Talk to a disability attorney today if you still have questions.