If you are considering filing for Social Security Disability, you must know all the pertinent information, rules, and regulations.
One of the most frequent questions (and misconceptions) is that your doctor, who may have diagnosed and is treating you, can put you on disability. Unfortunately, this is not the case.
You must file a complete application to the Social Security Administration (SSA) to start the process. The SSA doctors and medical experts and their vocational experts will review your medical records provided by your physician. All this is part of your completed and filed SSA application.
You must complete a detailed SSA Disability application which will be reviewed to determine your eligibility for disability benefits and payments.
Of course, a large and critical part of your application will include all your personal doctor’s medical information, treatment, and prognosis. However, the Social Security Disability administrators may also ask for the following documents and more:
- Request more information on specific medical records.
- Request particular forms that may not have been initially included.
- Request a complete medical examination.
The SSA administrators, who review all the information on your application, will then use the information in your medical records, exam, and other evidence and decide on your case. It’s vital to note that any delay in receiving medical documents or any information asked for could increase the time it takes them to reach a decision in your case and hold up your benefits and payments.
Although you commonly do not have to pay out of pocket for any medical exams or procedures the SSA reviewers request, you must not miss any of their appointments or meetings. This will also hold up the entire disability application process.
So, simply put, your doctor cannot put you on disability. Your best, fastest, and legally correct path to follow is to consult with a qualified, experienced South Carolina or Georgia Social Security Disability lawyer. This is the only proper way to ensure that all the pertinent information is included in your application and that all meetings, requests, and rules and regulations are correctly followed the first time you apply.
What Type of Documents Will I Need to File?
Your South Carolina or Georgia Social Security Disability law team will know precisely what documents you need to file and how they must be presented to the SSA reviewers. However, there are certain documents that the SSA requires in all cases. All these documents are mandatory (and more), so they can make a qualified and correct decision regarding your case.
Just a few of these documents are:
- Proof of birth, for example, an original birth certificate.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or proof of permanent U.S. residence.
- W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns for the previous year, and more.
- Complete and thorough medical documentation of your case, such as doctors’ reports, treatment records, and up-to-date test results.
- An Adult Disability Report provides complete information about your work history and condition, such as illnesses or injuries.
The Social Security Administration does provide a complete disability application checklist. Still, each case is unique, and you may have to submit other forms specific regarding your accident, injuries, and financial situation. Your Social Security Disability lawyer will review all the documents and ensure you have everything requested.
Attempting to navigate this complex legal process alone is very honestly not recommended. If any forms, pertinent information, or details are omitted, you will be forced to re-apply, or your case may be simply denied.
Are There Any Type of Conditions or Injuries That May Automatically Be Approved?
The Social Security Administrations’ legal definition of “disability” is that you are “disabled” if you can no longer do any substantial gainful activity due to your current medical or physical impairment. Also, your present impairments may result in your death or have lasted and are expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.
Your South Carolina or Georgia Social Security Disability lawyer fully comprehends that the Social Security Administration’s listings of medical impairments that qualify for disability benefits can be complex and confusing.
However, there are types of disabilities that may automatically qualify you for Social Security Disability benefits.
Some of these are:
- Musculoskeletal system conditions, such as Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, chronic back pain, and more.
- Mental conditions such as mood disorders, PTSD, Depression, Schizophrenia, and more.
- Cardiovascular conditions include angina, high blood pressure, heart diseases, and more.
- Most all types of Cancer.
- Nervous system disorders may include blindness, Parkinson’s disease, and more.
Your Social Security law team, experts and knowledgeable in these applications, will know what to look for, and if you may automatically qualify, they will advise you. You must realize, however, that your disability condition and situation are unique to you, and your law team will approach it legally, providing you with the best chances of success.
What Can I Do To Improve My Chances of Receiving Social Security Disability Benefits?
Filing for Social Security Disability benefits and getting it right the first time can be a daunting process. It’s always wise to consult with a Social Security disability law firm for help. Your lawyers know how to file correctly, what to include, and what may be needed to get the benefits you need and are entitled to.
Specific tips will improve your chances of getting the benefits you need; some of these tips are:
- File Your Claim as Soon as Possible – Don’t hesitate as this could be a lengthy process, and the sooner you get started, the better.
- If Denied, make an Appeal within 60 Days – If you are initially rejected, make your appeal quickly.
- Provide Full Details of Medical Treatment – Thorough and detailed medical information is critical to getting the help you need.
- Provide Proof of Recent Treatment – Current information on your conditions is vital to your case.
- Report all your Symptoms Accurately – Be accurate and truthful in all the information you provide.
Provide Full Details of your Work History – This will help prove what you did for so long and what you cannot do now due to your condition.
I Realize I Need Help To File My Disability Claim; How Should I Proceed?
All over the U.S., injuries and illness stop diligent Americans from earning a living. Accordingly, Social Security Disability benefits now become vitally important to you and your family.
Consulting with an experienced and knowledgeable Georgia or South Carolina disability law firm will help to ensure you file correctly and comprehensively the first time. Your Social Security Disability lawyer will ensure you get the best legal advice on what documents you must compile, complete, and file to win your case.
The best advice is: Do not try this alone; consult with an experienced Social Security Disability law firm, and they will guide you legally so you obtain the benefits that you, and your family, rightfully need and deserve.