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WHAT NOT TO DO IF APPLYING FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY (SSDI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a complex program with thousands of federal rules and regulations.

So, what are things you should not do if applying for Social Security disability?

  • Don't work unless you talk to your attorney first.  Working can easily make you ineligible for an SSDI benefit.  
  • Don't lie or misrepresent anything on your application or other forms.  Credibility is very important so avoid contradictions.
  • Don't stop seeing your doctor or getting medical treatment.  Your doctor's current records are vital in getting approved for any disability. 
  • Don't ignore correspondence or forms sent to you by Social Security or your state's Disability Determination Service (DDS).
  • Don't miss any consultative physical or mental status exams scheduled for you by Social Security.
  • Don't post personal information on social media:  Social Security can and does read these posts to find out about your activities, like trips, hobbies, etc.  Careful.
  •  Don't "represent" yourself.  Really, there is no such thing as self-representation.  Failure to get professional help makes it even harder to get benefits. Get an expert.
  • Don't give up after one or two denials.  Most SSDI claims are denied TWICE before being approved.  Appeal and appeal and get your case to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge--your best chance of being approved.

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Free consultations at the Forsythe Firm, Huntsville, AL.  (256) 799-0297.  We never ask you for money.  Pay us no fee unless you are approved and get past due benefits.  Free consultations. We are eligible for Direct Pay of fees from Social Security.

 


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