Improve Your Chances of Getting Approval for Social Security Disability Income

Having to stop working or having a career interrupted because of health reasons is a traumatic experience. It can make you feel guilty that you are unable to take care of yourself. It can be even worse if you have people who are dependent on you. Applying for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) is not a pleasant experience. It affects you mentally and emotionally. 60% – 75% of applications don’t even get approved. And there is an 80% chance that your appeal will also be rejected.

So, here is a list of suggestions that will improve your chances of getting approval for Social Security Disability

• Doctor’s Recommendation

When applying for SSDI, a doctor’s recommendation is critical to approval. You doctor will also be required to fill in a part of the paperwork in your application. He or she will also have to submit annual reports of your condition for your continued benefits. So make sure you and your doctor are on the same page with regard to your condition and its treatment. If not, please get a second opinion.

• Complete Medical Records

Make sure your medical records are 100% complete. This means every single visit and medical report for the last 5 years related to your condition. Do not leave anything out.

Make sure you read through your medical records and discuss them with your doctor. This has a two-fold benefit. Firstly, it will ensure that your doctor and you are on the same page with regard to your application for SSDI. Secondly, your doctor can explain all medical terms to you and you can see if there has been any negative comment that could hurt your chances of being approved for SSDI. If there is any negative comment, you can address it prior to submitting your application.

• List Out All Treatments

This step is over and above compiling your medical records. Ensure that every single treatment you have taken to treat your condition is listed out, including any form of alternative therapy you might have undergone. You want to be able to prove that you have tried everything to treat your condition. SSDI is your last resort.

• Details. Details.

A part of the application form is talking about how your disability has impacted your life. You NEED to list out everything that has been impacted by your disability. Even things you don’t want to talk about. You need to show what your life was before and how you are unable to manage anymore due to your disability.

• Outsource Your Application

If you feel you cannot manage, hire a professional to fill in your application for you. There are numerous disability lawyers and patient advocacy groups that can help you with this. A good lawyer or group will not ask for payment until you are awarded your SSDI. Make sure you check the Better Business Bureau for feedback on the person/group you are using before you commit yourself.

To find a Social Security disability attorney read this article.