Living with a disability can make everyday tasks more difficult, and navigating benefit programs or disability-related services can add another layer of stress. Applications may require extensive paperwork, medical evidence, and communication with government agencies. If a claim is denied or a person has difficulty accessing services, figuring out what to do next can be challenging.
A disability advocate in Indiana helps people with disabilities understand their rights, identify available resources, and navigate programs that may provide financial or practical support. Depending on the situation, an advocate may also represent someone seeking Social Security disability benefits or help address disability-related rights and accessibility concerns.
What Does a Disability Advocate Do?
The term “disability advocate” can describe several different types of professionals. Some focus primarily on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims. Others help people access community services, accommodations, employment resources, or other disability programs.
A disability advocate may help by:
- Explaining available disability benefits and services
- Assisting with applications and paperwork
- Gathering medical records and other supporting documentation
- Communicating with government agencies
- Helping a person understand why a claim was denied
- Preparing an appeal
- Representing an applicant during certain disability proceedings
- Connecting individuals and families with other community resources
The specific assistance available depends on the advocate, organization, and type of disability-related issue involved.
Can a Disability Advocate Help With Social Security Disability Benefits?
Yes. People applying for SSDI or SSI can choose someone to represent them when dealing with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
An appointed representative can help obtain information from a claimant’s Social Security record, submit evidence, assist with a claim or appeal, and represent the claimant during proceedings. The SSA permits both attorneys and qualified non-attorneys to serve as representatives.
A claimant generally appoints a representative by submitting Form SSA-1696, Claimant’s Appointment of a Representative. The SSA must authorize any fee a representative charges or collects for services involving a Social Security claim.
Is a Disability Advocate the Same as a Disability Lawyer?
Not necessarily. A disability lawyer is a licensed attorney, while some disability advocates are non-attorneys. Federal regulations allow qualified non-attorneys to represent Social Security claimants, provided they meet the SSA’s requirements.
The appropriate type of representative may depend on the circumstances. For example, someone may primarily need assistance organizing an initial application, while another person may be dealing with a denied claim, an appeal, or legal questions requiring an attorney’s experience.
Before choosing a representative, consider asking about their experience with similar disability claims, the services they provide, and how fees are handled.
What Disability Resources Are Available in Indiana?
Indiana residents have access to several state programs and organizations serving people with disabilities.
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Division of Disability, Aging, and Rehabilitative Services provides programs involving disability determinations, developmental disability services, rehabilitation, employment support, and services for people who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, or hard of hearing.
The state’s Bureau of Disabilities Services also administers programs designed to help children and adults with disabilities live as independently as possible, including certain Medicaid Home- and Community-Based Services waiver programs.
Indiana Disability Rights is another resource. The organization serves as Indiana’s protection and advocacy organization and works to protect and advance the legal, civil, and human rights of people with disabilities.
When Should I Consider Speaking With a Disability Advocate?
You may want to seek help if you are unsure which benefits or services are available, have difficulty completing an application, receive a disability claim denial, or need assistance understanding your rights.
For Social Security claims, deadlines can also make prompt action important. The SSA states that requests for disability or non-medical appeals generally must be received within 60 days after the claimant receives the agency’s decision.
Getting assistance early can help you understand the process, organize supporting evidence, and determine what steps may be available if problems arise.
Contact an Indianapolis Social Security Lawyer at Hankey Marks & Crider for a Free Consultation
A disability can affect your health, finances, and ability to work. If you need help understanding your rights or pursuing benefits, Hankey Marks & Crider can explain your options and guide you through the process.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Indianapolis social security lawyer.