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THINGS NOT TO SAY DURING A SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INTERVIEW OR HEARING

First,  keep in mind what you are asking Social Security to do:  TO PAY YOU A DISABILITY BENEFIT.  To them, "disability" means that you have been (or will be) unable to work for at least 12 straight months because of a severe physical and/or mental condition.  Therefore, you should not make any statement that has nothing to do with being unable to work.

The following are some statements that have nothing to do with being disabled (under Social Security rules).  You should avoid making these statements.

1)  Nobody will hire me. (Employment problem, not a disability problem).

2) There are no jobs in my town or area.  (Again, not a disability)

3) I can't find any work that I want to do.  (Not a disability)

4) The jobs I could get don't pay enough to live on.  (Same)

5)  I can't work because (any of the following):  I have to care for a sick child or relative; I don't have transportation; the place I used to work closed down; I have been laid off; jobs have been moved to Mexico or somewhere.....etc.

All the above things are NOT a disability; mostly, they are employment problems and might get you unemployment benefits but they will NOT get you a Social Security disability benefit.  Keep in mind, the KEY word is DISABILITY.

AN UNEMPLOYED INDIVIDUAL is still in the workforce, is able to work, is looking for work and would accept a job if one became available.

A DISABLED INDIVIDUAL is physically and/or mentally unable to work, is not looking for work and cannot accept a job if one were offered.  These benefits are strictly based on medical and/or mental illness or injury.

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If you have a long term medical condition that has or will prevent you from working for at least 12 straight months, call The Forsythe Firm in Huntsville for a free case evaluation.   

Please remember the following related to Social Security disabiity (SSDI):

  1. You must have worked enough and recently enough to be covered. You need the minimum number of recent work credits.
  2. You must prove you have a severe medical/mental condition that makes you unable to work any full-time job.
  3. This medical/mental condition must have (a) lasted for at least 12 straight months, (b) is expected to last at least 12 straight months OR (c) will end in death--a terminal illness.
  4. There must be objective medical evidence to PROVE the severity and longevity of your condition(s).  
  5. It usually takes a long time to get SSDI approved; it is not quick or easy, so you must commit for the long haul (stay the course).

The Forsythe Firm in Huntsville, AL has a long, successful track record in helping win Social Security disability claims.  The firm specializes in Social Security cases and does no other type of work.  Their advocates can represent Social Security claimants in all 50 states.  The Forsythe Firm offers free case evaluations or consultations.  You will never pay a fee for representation until after your claim has been approved and past due benefits are collected.   You will be treated with courtesy and respect.  The firm considers each client to be a valuable asset and your representative will fight hard to get you the benefits you deserve.  

The best way to begin is with a phone call:  (256) 799-0297.  You will reach one of our attorneys or advocates who know Social Security regulations and what it takes to be approved.  From the moment you appoint us as your representative our goal will be to help you get all the benefits you deserve under the law.  

________________________

The Forsythe Firm    Social Security Lawyers   (256) 799-0297

ForsytheFirm@gmail.com       "We Never Ask You for Money" 

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