If you are ready to apply for social Security disability benefits, there are a few tips you should know to increase your chances of receiving benefits:
- First, make sure you meet the basic requirements to be deemed disabled. There is no reason to go through the application process if you fail to satisfy the most basic requirements. For example, if your injury or illness will not last a year, you are not disabled. Also, your injury must be “severe” and limit your ability to do basic work functions, like lifting, sitting, and standing. So, if you have asthma, for example, but can still sit at your desk and perform your job, you will likely not be considered disabled. You can click here to learn more about the basic requirements that must be met to be considered disabled before you take the steps to begin your application.
- If you are not currently seeing a doctor, make an appointment. Current medical treatment is key to proving your claims. The Social Security Administration has a hard time believing you are unable to work if you have not seen a doctor in years. Recent medical records establishing your claim are a must. This is especially true if you are claiming a mental disability.
- Make sure you have all the information necessary to accurately fill out a disability application. Failure to accurately and thoroughly fill out your application can lead to a good claim being denied. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration provides a checklist, that can be found here, of all the information you will need to apply for benefits.
- Use an attorney when applying. A qualified disability attorney improves your chances of winning your claim. Also, you do not have to pay the attorney anything up front to get help with the application. Attorneys are only paid if you win, and attorney fees come out of any back pay you are entitled to receive. Increase your chances of winning without out of pocket costs- there is no reason not to us an attorney.
- If you do not want to use an attorney, apply online. Actually getting help from a Social Security employee at a local field office, especially during COVID times, can be difficult. At a minimum, you will have to wait a long time before you can get an appointment. By applying online, you can apply immediately and fill out the application at your convenience. And again, if you need help to fill out the application, an attorney is the best option.
These basic tips can help you navigate the application process and increase your chances of getting the benefits you need. If you have additional questions, call our qualified Social Security disability attorneys today. We are ready to help you from the initial application for benefits through hearings and appeals if necessary.
