If you're suffering from a disability that prevents you from working, and it's expected to last longer than a year, you need to file for social security disability. This is particularly important if you have no other source of income. Not only can social security disability provide you with a monthly cash payment, it can also provide benefits for any minor children you might have. If you're going to be filing for benefits, it's important that you avoid making mistakes that could be detrimental to your case. Here are four steps that you should follow so that you can receive the benefits you need.

Get Representation Early On

If you've decided to apply for social security disability benefits, the first thing you should do is seek legal representation. Some people believe that you need to wait until you receive a denial before hiring an attorney. However, that's not the case. In fact, it's often better that you hire an attorney to represent you from the very beginning. That way, you can avoid the mistakes that can delay the application process.

Be as Accurate as You Can Be

When it comes to applying for disability benefits through social security, it's crucial that you're as accurate as you can be during the application phase. You might not realize this, but the information that you put on your initial application is the same information that will follow through the entire process. Unfortunately, that means if you have mistakes on your application, those will be used to determine the outcome of your application. Once your application is in the system, you can't make changes to it. To avoid problems, be as accurate as you can be.

Use the Appeal to Your Advantage

If your application disability benefits is denied, which it probably will be, don't give up on the process. It's important to remember that most applications are denied the first time through. That doesn't mean that your disability doesn't qualify for benefits. In fact, most denials simply mean that there was a problem with the paperwork. If you receive the denial letter, be sure to appeal the denial as soon as possible. If you had mistakes on the initial application, use the appeals process to fix those mistakes.

Reapply if Your Appeal is Denied

When you appeal a denial of benefits, it's possible that it will be denied. If your appeal is denied, be prepared to reapply. You do have the right to reapply for benefits after an appeal is denied. When you reapply, be sure to add any new information that might exist, such as documents to show that your medical condition has gotten worse. If you haven't been working with a social security disability attorney, you'll need to hire one before you reapply. They can ensure that your new application is thorough and complete.

To learn more, contact a law firm like Gordon & Pont.