DISABILITY CHECKLIST - IMPROVE YOUR ODDS FOR AN AWARD

How to improve your odds of getting a Social Security disability application approved.  Here are some basic but vital pointers that can help you get approved.

The Initial Application Paperwork - must be completed meticulously, completely and accurately.  It's not something you can fly over like I used to do my homework.  The following forms are long and cumbersome but they are vital:
  • Adult Disability Report (if you are 18 or over)
  • Work History Report
  • Function Report
The Adult Disability Report must provide the name, address and telephone number for every doctor, hospital, clinic or other medical or psychological provider you have seen since the date you claim to have first become disabled. List all conditions treated by each provider with estimate first/last dates of your visits to each provider.  List side effects of all medications.  

The Work History Report will be used primarily at the Step Four decision making process:  What was your past work like?  Was it skilled, semi-skilled or unskilled?  Was it sedentary, light, medium, heavy or very heavy exertion level?  An incomplete or skimpy Work History Report can hurt your odds of being approved.

Your Function Report provides a daily snapshot of your activities and limitations.  They are looking for the maximum that you are able to do on a sustained basis.  Those questions about preparing meals, doing yard work, driving and social activities have a purpose.  Think about them before you answer.  If possible, have a spouse or relative who lives with you or knows about your activities help you with concise, accurate answers to these questions. Be consistent.  Don't say, for example, that you cannot do any lawn work due to back pain, then state that you like to play golf.  If you once enjoyed playing golf but are no longer able to play - be sure to state that clearly. If you can cook or do household chores, but require frequent rest periods, be sure to explain that. Otherwise, you may be indicating that you can perform light work, which could get you denied.

Request for Hearing.  If you get a denial letter, request a hearing (file an appeal) within 60 days.  That's all the time you have.  Remember that most benefits are approved at the hearing, not with the application.  If you need help with the appeal, please feel free to contact my office at the number on the top of this page. Remember, we charge nothing upfront for a case evaluation or consultation.

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