5 Things That Help When Applying for SSDI Benefits

When applying for social security disability insurance benefits, many think that it will take years to get the earnings they need to qualify or that it is impossible to get approved in the first place. While it is true that 2/3 of SSDI applicants have to apply more than once and some might not get approved at all, there are ways in which you can increase the likelihood, and speed, of your claim getting approved. If you follow the steps properly, your experience should go more smoothly, and you may receive your benefits in about 6 to 9 months.
1. Gather as much medical evidence from your doctor as possible before applying. When getting documentation regarding your disability from your doctor, make sure it emphasizes how your diagnoses impair your daily functional capacity. Also, by submitting your medical records at the same time that you apply for disability, you can shorten the time for evaluation of your claim.
2. Keep in communication with the SSA. Always respond promptly to requests for information from the SSA. The SSA representative should be able to tell you if there was anything wrong with the paperwork you submitted or if the SSA needs you to take any other steps to assure that all necessary paperwork has been received. It is essential that you not miss deadlines, as doing so will lead to your claim being denied. Also, SSA representatives usually have many cases to work on and plenty of phone calls each week. By keeping in communication with your representative in a respectful manner you can make the difference as to whether or not your case gets the attention it deserves.
3. Be completely honest and truthful when filling out the application. There is no better way to disqualify yourself from qualifying for SSDI than providing inaccurate info on your application. If the SSA discovers that you knowingly lied or misrepresented any information related to your claim, your claim won’t only be denied, but you can also face criminal charges.
4. Keep seeing your physician as scheduled and follow treatment recommendation, including the medications prescribed to you. If you are not following your doctor’s directions, you need to have a very good reason. If you don’t, this can be used as a basis to deny your claim. The SSA may determine that your medical condition is not as severe as you claim. Whether or not you take the medicine that is prescribed can affect how Social Security views your impairments.
5. Hire an attorney to help with your claim. People who hire lawyers knowledgeable about Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits claims have an improved likelihood of qualifying for benefits. Fees are limited and usually only are paid from past due benefits. It is wise to hire an attorney who knows the law and can give you advice about presentation of your claim.
If you follow all of these steps, your likelihood of being found entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits will be improved.