How To Avoid Mistakes When Filing For Social Security Disability
By Jim Allsup
Filing for Social Security disability benefits is usually a lengthy process. It may take up to two years for a claim to reach the hearing stage, if it reaches this stage at all. In reality, the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies two-thirds of all initial SSDI applications. However, there are certain things you can do to improve your chances of receiving your benefits. By following this advice, you can avoid common mistakes and receive a favorable SSDI decision in less time.
Be Prepared
Being prepared and knowing what to expect during the SSDI application process can increase your chances of receiving an SSDI award. Before the claims process begins, be sure to gather all important documents and information such as updated medical records, an accurate work history and all W2 forms. This information is crucial.
The SSA has a very specific evaluation process to determine if an individual is eligible for SSDI benefits. To receive benefits, you must not be “gainfully employed,” which means making more than $1,000 a month (in 2010). Your condition must be severe enough to interfere with basic work activities, which can range from things like standing and sitting for extended periods, to heavy lifting and repetitive motion. Your condition must be on the SSA’’s list of disabling conditions, and your disability must have lasted, or is expected to last, for at least one year or result in death. You also must not be able to do the type of work you used to do before your disability, and are unable to perform any other type of work.
Accurately Describe Your Disability and Work History
Be ready to discuss your disability in specific terms. Don”t exaggerate–or underestimate–your condition. Many people underestimate how their disability affects their lives. Some applicants who have lived with their disability for a long time, or are embarrassed or too proud to speak of their condition, may have their claim denied because they don”t give the SSA enough information. On the other hand, some exaggerate their condition to improve their chances for an SSDI award. However, this can backfire. If you use a wheelchair at your hearing but don”t normally use one, the judge may inspect the wheelchair for wear and tear, or notice that the wheels or seat look brand new, and deny your claim. It’’s important to provide details about your disability, but don”t exaggerate.
To receive SSDI benefits, you also need to be specific and truthful about your work history. If you previously worked in retail, as a server, or in another job where you have to stand for lengthy periods and you can”t stand that long anymore, definitely write that down. Accurately demonstrating that you can”t perform this work is a critical component of having your SSDI claim approved. For example, if your job requires you to stand for up to six hours a day and you can”t stand for more than 30 minutes, make this clear on your SSDI application.
Know Deadlines, Get Help and Don”t Give Up
There is a formal appeals process at each level of the SSDI application process. If you are rejected at any level, you only have 60 days to appeal to the next level. Miss the deadline and you”ll have to start the application process all over again.
Consider getting help from a professional representative. The SSDI process is long and difficult and most applicants can benefit from an experienced professional. Representation can greatly increase your chances of having your SSDI claim approved.
Finally, don”t give up. Yes, the SSDI application process can be long, but if you follow this advice, you will have a better chance of being awarded the SSDI benefits you deserve.
About The Author
Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a provider of Social Security disability (http://www.allsup.com) and Medicare services, including SSDI representation and help with the SSDI application (http://www.allsup.com/about-ssdi/ssdi-process.aspx) process.