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STREAMLINE YOUR DISABILITY CASE TO WIN

 Nothing good happens by accident in a Social Security disability claim.

The disability claim process is overwhelming on so many levels.  Tons of forms to fill out, interviews, confusing terms, delays.....

You should streamline your application for the best chance of success:

1. Check Your application forms for errors.  Have your spouse or a family member check over your application forms for completeness and accuracy.  You will be amazed how many errors someone else may find.  And completeness is essential.  Items often missing from the application include:

  • Dates, such as dates of medical treatment, doctor's visits, etc.
  • Addresses:  for each medical provider and each former employer.
  • Detailed job descriptions on your Work History Report.
  • Details about specific requirements of all past jobs (on the Work History Report).
  • Specifics about how your daily activities are limited by your medical or mental impairments (on your Function Report)
  • A list of all the prescriptions you take and side effects.

2.  Be Sure the Disability Determination Service (DDS) gets all your records.

The state agency that will review your application and make the initial decision on your eligibility is called the "Disability Determination Service" or DDS.  They will order all the medical records from each doctor, clinic, hospital or other medical provider listed on your application.  As stated above, make sure every medical provider is listed.  Then, call DDS about once a month to report any new treatment, tests or doctor's visits.

3.   As you enter the process be sure to focus on the purpose of your claim:  to prove that you are not able to work.

The SSDI program pays for one thing, and one thing only.  Disability.  Social Security's definition of disability is being unable to work due to a medical and/or mental condition which has lasted for at least 12 straight months.  Don't get sidetracked by any other distractions.  Too often I see applicants chase rabbits into the weeds by trying to discuss.....

  • the poor job market
  • financial need
  • how others got (or couldn't get) disability benefits
  • retirement
  • quitting work for some reason other than disability, etc.

I suggest your focus on one fact:  You are disabled by one or more medical/mental impairments that make it impossible for you to work. 

"If Social Security gets the idea that you are not working due to ANY other reason, they will not be interested in paying your claim."

 

 


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