If you’re thinking about applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you might already feel overwhelmed. Talking to a local disability lawyer can seem like a big step—but it doesn’t have to be. At Collins Price, we make it easy to get help when you need it most. In this post, we’ll walk you through what to expect when you first talk to a SSDI lawyer and how our firm supports you throughout the entire process.
Why Contacting a SSDI Lawyer Matters
The SSDI process is complex, and making a mistake early on can delay or hurt your claim. By speaking with a qualified SSDI lawyer from the beginning, you avoid common errors and increase your chances of success. At Collins Price, we understand how difficult it is to live with a disability. Our compassionate legal team is here to take the pressure off you.
What to Prepare Before the Call
When you first reach out to a SSDI lawyer, it helps to have a few things ready:
- A summary of your work history (last 15 years).
- A list of your diagnosed medical conditions.
- A timeline of when your symptoms started.
- Any supporting documents from your healthcare providers.
- Notes on how your condition affects your daily life (walking, standing, lifting, memory, etc.).
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything. Many people call us before their documents are organized. That’s perfectly fine—we’re here to guide you through.
What Our Initial Call Covers
Your first call is always free and confidential. During this consultation, we will:
- Listen to your background and discuss your claim for benefits.
- Ask questions about your work and medical history.
- Identify potential legal challenges in your case.
- Outline your options and the steps ahead.
We’ll also explain what the Social Security Administration (SSA) is looking for in a qualifying disability and what factors may be helpful or harmful to your claim for benefits.
What Happens If You Hire Us
If you choose to work with us, we’ll start helping immediately. Here’s what our legal support includes:
- Filing or appealing your claim: We manage all paperwork and deadlines.
- Medical record requests: We work with your doctors to gather persuasive evidence.
- Ongoing Case Management: We’ll keep you informed as updates occur.
- Case strategy: We prepare every case thoroughly, ensuring we have the best possible evidence on hand and argument to make to the Social Security Administration.
Remember, we don’t get paid unless you win. Our fees are regulated by the Social Security Administration and deducted from any back pay you receive. If you do not win your claim, we do not receive any payment.
Common Questions From First-Time Callers
How long does SSDI take to approve? Most initial claims are denied and it typically takes 3 to 6 months for an initial decision (yes or no) on a claim before the appeals processes begin. Claims that eventually move through to a hearing can take up to two years, but each claim varies based on the particulars of your case. You can read more about timelines in our companion post: “How Long Does it Take To Get Disability in NC?”
What if I’ve already been denied? That’s okay. Many people are denied the first time. We help clients with appeals every day.
Will I need to go to court? Not necessarily. But if you do, we’ll represent you at the hearing and prepare you thoroughly.
How We Work at Collins Price
Our firm has helped thousands of people across North Carolina apply for and win SSDI and SSI benefits. We focus 100% on disability law, so we understand the SSA’s rules inside and out. We believe in being honest, thorough, and kind. Our team genuinely cares about the people we help.
Ready to take the first step? Contact Collins Price today for a free, no-pressure consultation on your claim.
