Frequently Asked Questions
At Peter T. Skeie & Associates, the firm's practice is focused on Social Security disability and ERISA disability claims. With this concentration many clients have similar questions. Please read below to find your question and the firm's response, or simply contact the firm for a risk-free consultation.
SSD questions
- What will a lawyer do for my Social Security disability claim?
- How do I apply for SSD benefits?
- How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
ERISA questions
- What kinds of group benefits are covered under ERISA?
- When should I contact a lawyer?
- How long will my ERISA case take?
Various sources for Social Security and ERISA information
- Social Security Administration
- SSA's Program Operations Manual System
- Social Security Codes
- Social Security Code of Federal Regulations
- Hearings, Appeals and Litigation Law Manual
- Hearing Office Information, Nashville, TN
- ERISA Regulations
- ERISA Codes
- Public Information about Plans Subject to ERISA
- Tennessee Medical Provider Information
Contact Peter T. Skeie & Associates
Call 615-313-9111 or toll free at 866.683.9681 or contact the firm online to schedule a free initial consultation.
What will a lawyer do for my Social Security disability claim?
You can pursue a claim yourself, but it is better to have someone on your side with experience and thorough understanding of what these claims and files entail. Your lawyer will also ensure that the proper documents are filed under the proper time constraints.
Most disability claims are denied in the initial application, and it is very possible that the claim will be denied upon reconsideration as well. If you have to go before an administrative law judge, it is best to have an attorney by your side to deliver a clear and focused argument on your behalf.
How do I apply for SSD benefits?
- You can click here to apply online at the Social Security Administration's website.
- You can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 and they will schedule an appointment to call you back
- You can go to your local Nashville Social Security office and tell the staff you want to apply for disability benefits.
Peter T. Skeie & Associates looks forward to helping disabled and mentally ill people collect health benefits. Feel free to contact the firm for representation, guidance, and assistance while trying to obtain SSD benefits, or to schedule a free initial consultation to get an idea of the Social Security benefits process.
How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
The law firm of Peter T. Skeie & Associates works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not pay for your SSD or ERISA disability claim until you win your case and collect compensation. At that point, the firm bills you for a portion of your compensation to cover the costs of the case. if your case is not successful, you owe nothing.
To find out more about your specific situation, contact the firm to schedule a free initial consultation.
What kinds of group benefits does ERISA cover?
ERISA applies to any benefits offered to employees by a private employer. ERISA typically provides the following employee benefits:
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When should I contact a lawyer?
When involving an attorney in a disability claim, generally, the sooner the better. If you suspect that an injury may keep you out of work for an extended period of time, contact Peter T. Skeie & Associates. An experienced ERISA and SSD lawyer such as Peter Skeie can make sure the proper documents and information are included in the initial claim and in the administrative appeal. If you are denied the administrative appeal for benefits, the evidence you propose on the next appeal may be limited. Consulting an attorney early in the process helps protect your rights and increases your chances for success in recovering benefits.
How long will my ERISA case take?
The insurance company should respond to your initial claim about 45 days after it receives your application. The insurance company may take extensions to evaluate your claim, but it will inform you in writing if this is the case.
Appeals, however, can take much longer. Filing an administrative appeal can take six months to go through. If this appeal is denied, the next step is to appeal to the court, which can take anywhere from one to two years.
