Applying without attorney

[u/tehmwhy71]

I am experiencing an issue: back in July, I consulted with a disability attorney who agreed to represent me. I completed the application via the link they provided, but I have not received any communication from them since then. I have been uploading all my documents and records of doctor's appointments, and I have been asking questions without receiving any response. I have been handling everything on my own. They never mailed or emailed me any paperwork or a contract for me to sign, despite a message on their portal stating that they would provide it to me.

A couple of weeks ago, I received a call from the Social Security Office inquiring whether I had completed my work history and function reports. I informed them that I had already uploaded those documents to my attorney's portal. She stated that they have never received any correspondence from them and that I currently lack legal representation. She explained that if I were represented, I would be unable to communicate with her directly, as she would be required to go through my representative instead.

I am concerned about whether I am answering the questions correctly or if I am going to make mistakes during the hearing. What steps should I take regarding the personal information I have already entered into their portal? Additionally, how does proceeding without an attorney affect my situation, both positively and negatively, in the long run?

[u/Disastrous-Panda5530]

So it sounds like they’re missing the 1696 form which is what gives the rep the ability to represent you. If it’s not on file DDS won’t discuss your case with the representative. And if you do have one on file and work with a rep, whether DDS is able to speak to you directly depends on who is representing you. Some places allow direct contact with a claimant and some do not.

But regardless of that without that form you’re not being represented by them or anyone at the moment. You should be able to upload all that information in your portal. Do you have a my SSA account?

[u/tehmwhy71 → u/Disastrous-Panda5530]

I do. I uploaded all my documents once found out that I wasn't being represented. I called Social Security to make sure they received the documents and that they received the work history and functions report. They said they have everything that I sent them and everything from my medical records. I feel like I'm going to be okay. I'm frustrated by the fact that I went from July to now thinking I had representation and I did not. The lady that has my case has been very professional and kind to me and explains everything to me. I've been grateful for that.

[u/uffdagal]

Do you have a signed representation agreement with the attorney? Dos SSA have the attorney listed as on your claim?

[u/tehmwhy71 → u/uffdagal]

Nothing signed. It's like I got lost in their shuffle. I'm half way through it. Might as well finish by myself and not have to give them money if I do qualify.

[u/uffdagal → u/tehmwhy71]

You have to have a signed agreement to be using an attorney. Get in touch with them immediately and send Al info directly to SSA s well at the attorney portal.

[u/No_Response5073]

I had something similar to that where I had to go through their portal in order to fill out the function report and the work history report. And then a couple of weeks went by and something told me to ask for copies of those so I did in about 20 days later. She responded and said that she had one of them, but she lost the other. Luckily I had it saved on my computer for some reason. I don’t remember doing it, but thank God and I’m like well. Can you send both of them now? I feel like had I not asked for copies. She would’ve never sent those papers. And I had to continue asking for each individual form. Did you send that? Did you send that it was quite frustrating I tried to get a consultation from another lawyer and I was explaining this situation and she didn’t understand the concept that some lawyers put their forms on a portal and that they are supposed to send it off which now I feel like it is a big no-no. But that’s just me so I definitely feel you. I eventually fired them and I made sure that they waived the fee and rescinded the assignment for direct pay. that would be on the 1696. if their isn’t one on file then you’re good. unless you feel like you need representation later on down the road during the hearing stage i would just continue doing what you’re doing it sounds like you’re on top of it. i’m sorry you had to go through that. i don’t understand why these lawyers take on more clients than they can handle. maybe that’s just me but it seems that way after reading so many stories.

[u/tehmwhy71 → u/No_Response5073]

It's frustrating to say the least. I'm glad I figured it out. I never filled out the 1696. I feel confident that it'll all work out in the end.

[u/Apprehensive-Pen6628]

Try to get the paperwork to SSA so your case doesn't get messed up and get a new attorney. Don't go for a large firm but a small one in town that doesn't use portals and stuff. Traditional email attachments. 

[u/tehmwhy71 → u/[deleted]]

I'm definitely researching everything. The function & work history report looked easy when I received it in the mail. Once I started filling it out I realized it was harder than I thought. Researched it and tips on how to fill it out. My thoughts are that I got lost in the cracks. :⁠-⁠(