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Applying for Social Security Disability--what not to Do
Author: Becca  | Posted: 02-04-2008 | Comments: 0 | Views: 19 | Rating: (63)  (?) 
At the end of each day, thousands of Social Security disability applications have been processed. Social Security workers review disability files and make determinations based on paperwork--decisions that will affect thousands of lives. The disability application process is a long one, with dozens of signatures, contact numbers and medical research, and often desperate hopes. It is disappointing that about 70% of these disabled Americans will have their hopes dashed by an official denial in the mail.
Although the chances of being denied initially are high, there are some things these applicants could have done to lower their chances of being denied. Here are three common mistakes to avoid while applying for disability:
Mistake #1: Sloppy paperwork
Those who are serious about their Social Security application should write clearly and legibly. Be sure to review each page of the application thoroughly, ask questions, and make sure you understand the disability process before applying your signature. Make sure each page is present and in order, and that all required information is attached.
One of the first things a Social Security worker after receiving an application is to look through the paperwork to see if anything is missing. If you are serious about getting Social Security disability benefits, don't give them any chance to put your file aside. Delays only cost you valuable time and put your disability benefits further out of reach. It is worth a second look to make sure everything is present.
Mistake #2: Lack of detail
Many disability applications have general statements such as "I can't work." This may be true, but it doesn't add to your case. Instead, be specific as to why you cannot work. When a Social Security worker reviews your application, he or she should see "I can sit up to 20 minutes at a time, stand for 10 minutes, and can lift or carry up to 5 lbs. I was unable to work about 10 days per month before I lost my last job. Dr. Smith has restricted me from current employment because of my back pain and heavy medication." Which do you think a Social Security worker is more likely to approve?
Mistake #3: Leaving the dirty work to Social Security
Applicants are told that Social Security will request any necessary medical records and provide a medical consultation if necessary. All you need to do is submit an application, and they will do the rest. Right?
If you're serious about getting disability benefits, do your research before you even submit the application. Get all your records from your doctors, clinics, hospitals, counselors, employers and anyone who may become important to your case. Obtain records from before you became disabled if possible, all the way up to the present. And make copies of everything just in case. The most important documents are those related to your ability to work, and a narrative or disability form from your doctor is of utmost importance.
If you haven't been to see a doctor in awhile, but are serious about getting Social Security benefits, do not wait for Social Security to send you to their doctor. Find a dependable doctor who supports your disability claim and build a relationship fast--it is very difficult to get disability benefits based solely on the testimony of a Social Security doctor who doesn't know you and your condition at all.
These tips will make your Social Security file clearer, streamlined and efficient, and maximize your chances of being approved for disability quickly. Wherever you are in the process, best of luck.
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Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/disabilities-articles/applying-for-social-security-disabilitywhat-not-to-do-376949.html
About the Author:Becca has been involved in the Social Security disability world since 1995 and enjoys watching the program change lives for the better.
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Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there short term disability for 2-3 months for ...
By: Kidwell | 23-07-2008
is there short term disability for 2-3 months for having surgery with no supp ins and was recently let go from my job unemployment still pending surgery happens the day before state makes decision on paying last 2 weeks let alone next 8 weeks or so
Hope
By: Hoops | 22-07-2008
I have been diagnosed with a rare eye disease and will not be able to work at my present job. I can disable from my present job on a non service disability illness but worry about health insurance. I have two children, 1 and 3 years of age. Can I apply for social security benefits or medicare and SSI. How do i take care of myself and my family?
Disability was denied. Said condition was not a ...
By: dbrnwln | 20-07-2008
Disability was denied. Said condition was not a disability,but won't tell me what I have.
I reiieved my first stste disability check, two ...
By: lsprngvlly | 19-07-2008
I reiieved my first stste disability check, two days later I received my last paycheck. My employer wants me to return my check. Do I have to return the money? Or do I wait for disibility to requset a refund?
What should be done if someone steals your Social ...
By: ~!Question Queen Pinto Bean!~ | 18-07-2008
What should be done if someone steals your Social Security backpay check?
I know this was about 7 yrs. ago, but I'm still bothered by this. The crooked social worker ENCOURAGED the former foster mom to steal my checks (Soc. Sec. & a trust fund check) when I turned 18. Now I'm 24 & will be 25 next month. I didn't know my legal rights back then.
I went to college, & I have a degree. They tried to say I don't know how to manage my $$, when in fact, I DO. They just made up that lie so the foster mom could keep the check for herself. She never gave me the $$. The social worker MADE me sign the check over to the foster mom, but I didn't know what was going on @ the time. They lied & said that they put it in a savings bond.
In 2003, I got robbed by a homeless guy. He was a criminal to society, anyway. (I shouldn't be blamed. Not my fault). & when I ask the foster mom for my money, she says, "Go get it from that PUNK!"
Social Security refuses to do anything about it, & the bank says it's HER $$ & not mine. My name was on the check, & not hers.
Im just wondering
By: Tracy | 18-07-2008
i have not been able to work for just over 2years now after having 2 ops on my spine. I receive incap benefit but was wondering if i am able to claim any sort of disability benefit? I also have a 4year old to look after on my own.
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