Qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits is a ridiculously uphill battle. Two-thirds of the initial claims are denied.
Despite of those gloomy statistics, the annual number of disability awards granted by the Social Security Administration has more than doubled since the 1970s. So rather than getting discouraged, commit to putting together the strongest claim you can right from the start.
The Social Security Administration recommends you gather the following information to prepare for your application:
- Names, addresses, phone numbers, patient ID numbers and dates of treatment for all doctors, hospitals and clinics you have visited
- Names and dates of all medical tests you have had and who ordered them
- A list of all medications you take and who prescribed them
- A list of up to five jobs you had in the 15 years before you became unable to work, including date ranges for each
- Information about any insurance or workers compensation claims you filed, such as claim number and name, address and phone number of insurance company
- Your complete personal information and history — marriages and divorces, names and birthdays of your minor children and spouse, military service discharge information, your most recent income tax forms, and your bank account information
It also helps to obtain a written opinion from a medical professional who has treated you and is familiar with your condition. The opinion should include your diagnosis, response to treatment, prognosis and objective test results, such as imaging, blood work and biopsies. Most important, the opinion should address how the physician believes your disability limits your ability to work.
There are no guarantees when applying for Social Security Disability, but there are ways to keep fighting until you get the assistance you deserve. One of the best ways is to have an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer on your side throughout the process. Contact us to learn more!