Social Security benefits are something you can get when you retire or if you become unable to work any longer due to injury or illness. When it comes to these kinds of benefits, you get what you put in, in most cases. The more money you earn and the longer you work, the better your chances will be that you will land a decent amount of Social Security when you need benefits or become eligible for the benefits.

You can also receive Social Security should your spouse pass away — or at least you'll receive these benefits for a while. There are other circumstances in which you can receive Social Security, which can be discussed with a Social Security attorney. Should you discuss your needs or benefits with a lawyer? Here is a guide to tell you when you will need a lawyer to assist you. This way, you are prepared for any circumstance that comes your way.

You are being denied benefits

If you've been receiving Social Security but have been cut off for some reason, or have had your benefits cut down, then you need to speak with a skilled lawyer to discuss your case. The reason why is this: being denied or having these benefits reduced can be not only hard to figure out, but this process requires filing out new paperwork in order to attempt to get these benefits up and running again. If you don't know where to start to get your Social Security operating as it should again, or you're being subjected to issues or shut-downs regarding your current benefits, having an attorney who specializes in these things will help you make sense of your situation.

You are applying for ex-spouse benefits

In some cases, you can receive Social Security benefits if you have an ex-spouse who passes away. Certain benefits can be applied to you if you have children in common of a certain age or if you or any of your children in common with the ex-spouse are disabled. In order to receive new benefits, there are certain restrictions and possible limitations, so hire an experienced Social Security attorney to assist you.

When it comes to getting Social Security, sometimes it's best to hire legal assistance as part of the process. Your attorney will remain available to you in the event you end up needing future services, and they can be helpful to a legal case you have going on currently as well.