Ideally, every disabled person would have the support needed to get through challenging times. The SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance program, is designed to offer financial assistance to those who are permanently disabled because of injury or illness.
While millions of applications are filed with the SSA (Social Security Administration) each year, only about one-third are initially approved. Many applications are denied because they don’t meet basic requirements, but thousands are disapproved for other reasons. In this guide, we’ll offer some basic advice and help with a disability claim.
Complete the Application Properly
Before starting the process, it’s a good idea to prepare by gathering the necessary documentation. The Social Security Administration has a handy printable checklist, and by following it, applicants can see what they have and what they still need.
Along with basic personal data, you’ll need to answer some health questions. The SSA will want to know about your conditions, treatments, hospital and doctor visits, and more. Finally, you’ll have to share your work and educational histories.
Maintain Medical Documentation
Many attorneys say that disability claims are won and lost based on the quality of medical evidence. The SSA will ask for medical records, which aren’t always easy to obtain from doctors’ offices and hospitals. By gathering these documents yourself, you’ll get the paperwork into the right hands. To build an even stronger case, continue to gather new evidence and consider starting a journal of interactions with healthcare providers.
Maintain a Good Connection With Your Medical Team
The Social Security Administration’s new rulings mean that doctors’ opinions no longer carry the weight they once did. Now, the SSA considers physicians’ opinions based on supportability and consistency with on-file evidence. That’s why it’s so important for claimants to maintain relationships with their doctors.
Ask for a written statement that describes your condition and its effects on your ability to hold a job, as well as an RFC or residual functional capacity evaluation. Furthermore, if your case goes to an administrative hearing, a physician’s testimony will be beneficial.
Monitor the Claim’s Status
The Social Security Administration handles millions of claims every year. While yours may have significant merit, it’s important to keep in mind that there are thousands of others in similar situations. To ensure the appropriate handling of your case, stay in touch with the administration.
If there are questions about the claim, call a representative and keep logs of all communications, including dates, names, times, and phone numbers. It may seem tedious, but monitoring your claim will reduce the risk of missing an important deadline.
Follow Treatment Recommendations
Finally, SSDI claimants should follow all physician recommendations, including taking medicines as prescribed, attending all appointments, and making lifestyle changes. Following doctors’ orders will enhance the quality of medical documentation, thereby building a stronger claim and increasing your chances of gaining disability benefits.
Increase Your Chances of Success by Hiring an Attorney
While it’s easy for a person to assume that they’ll get disability benefits based on their condition, approval is not automatic. The SSA carefully evaluates every claim before deciding on it, and many claims are initially denied. However, you can increase your chances of success by working with a disability attorney. Request information via our online form or call today to schedule a consultation with a local lawyer.