If you have received a confusing notice from the Social Security Administration regarding your claim or benefits, you may be asking, “Where can I ask questions about Social Security?” Many people contact their local Social Security office for answers to questions regarding their benefits. However, Social Security staff cannot provide legal advice or strategy guidance, leaving recipients frustrated and without answers.
Understanding where to go with questions about Social Security can help you avoid delays and denials of your benefits. If you have questions or concerns about a specific case, clear guidance from an experienced Social Security attorney can help you avoid confusion when your benefits are on the line.
Questions About Social Security
According to the Social Security Figures 2024 Fact Sheet, nearly 184 million workers contribute to Social Security through payroll taxes, and 68 million people receive monthly benefits. That means a lot of people with a lot of questions. Common areas where questions about Social Security arise include:
- The steps of the filing and appeal process
- What benefits are available
- Differences between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI) eligibility
- What documentation is needed
- How work history affects benefits
- What happens after a denial
- Where to go for help with a problem
Where to Go for Social Security Questions
Many people rely on the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) online portal when they have questions regarding their benefits. The online portal is available anytime, so it is certainly the most convenient option. However, the SSA’s website is intended for general advice and so does not offer much explanation of how a person’s information may affect their eligibility or appeal rights, especially in complex or unusual cases.
You can also ask questions over the phone. It is understandable to believe that Social Security Administration representatives can answer questions you have regarding your benefits since they work for the department that provides your payments. However, there are limits to what SSA representatives are allowed to explain or give advice about.
Speaking directly with the SSA in person, on the phone, or online can help with basic status updates or answers to questions about the process, but they can’t provide help with any questions about financial, legal, or medical issues related to your claim or benefits. For answers to questions an SSA representative is not qualified to answer, you may need to work with a Social Security lawyer.
When You Should Hire a Social Security Lawyer
A knowledgeable Social Security attorney becomes essential to your claim when your questions involve legal strategy, evidence requirements, or appeal decisions that SSA staff are not authorized to address. Your lawyer can increase your chances of winning a disability claim or appeal through a deep understanding of the process, rules, and laws involving Social Security benefits. This may include, but is not limited to:
- Understanding why benefits were denied
- Filing a timely appeal
- Gathering additional medical evidence
- Meeting the SSA’s strict deadlines
- Managing communication with the SSA
- Presenting your case and advocating for your rights and interests
To ensure your decisions are based on current eligibility rules, proper documentation, and correct procedural steps, hire a Social Security lawyer. An experienced attorney understands your questions and can guide you through the appeals process with focused legal advocacy. It is especially important to work with an attorney if you have received an initial denial. From that point, you only have 60 days to file an appeal.
FAQs
Q: Who Gives Social Security Advice?
A: Several types of professionals can give Social Security advice. Social Security representatives can help with administrative information, but their scope is limited. Financial planners and analysts with Social Security experience can help with the filing process, but may not have sufficient experience with the medical aspects, and cannot offer legal advice.
A skilled Social Security lawyer can offer advice about eligibility, appeals, and evidence requirements and has extensive experience with the medical and financial aspects.
Q: What Should You Ask Your Social Security Lawyer?
A: You should ask your Social Security lawyer any questions you have about your claim or benefits. In addition, be sure to ask your attorney about their strategy for your case, what information they need from you, and how you should prepare. Whenever you work with an attorney, it is important to make sure you have a clear understanding of how often you can expect to receive updates and the fees, fee structure, and payment expectations.
Q: What Is the Highest Social Security Check for a Single Person?
A: According to the Social Security Administration, the maximum Social Security retirement benefit for someone retiring at age 65 in 2026 is $3,467 per month. However, it is important to note that a person’s benefit amount can vary based on their earnings history, retirement age, and other factors. If you have questions about how your benefit amount is determined or how your unique situation affects your benefits, a trusted Social Security attorney can help.
Q: What Is One of the Biggest Mistakes People Make Regarding Social Security?
A: One of the biggest mistakes people make regarding Social Security is misunderstanding eligibility rules. Medical eligibility mistakes are one of the leading reasons for a denied claim, but the actual error in the process can be one of many, which may include incorrect or incomplete paperwork and invalid or outdated documentation. Other common mistakes include misunderstanding work credit rules and missing important deadlines or hearings.
Your Northern California Social Security Disability Law Firm
Gade & Parekh, LLP is a Sacramento Social Security Law Firm focused on helping individuals navigate Social Security Disability and SSI claims. The firm serves clients throughout Northern California with dedicated legal representation and clear guidance.
Our attorneys have more than 30 years of experience advocating for clients in Social Security Disability and SSI claims, including focused advocacy for disabled people and an extensive understanding of medical evidence. If you need answers you can rely on, or you want to hire a social security lawyer, contact Gade & Parekh, LLP today.