The SSDI disability approval process is complex, and no two cases are the same. However, here are 5 ways that you increase the chances that Social Security will approve your SSDI disability claim.
1. You have a solid work record
If you have consistently worked prior to becoming disabled, that means that you have consistently paid Social Security taxes. Judges generally find a consistent work history as credible, and tending to show that if you could continue working, you would.
2. Your medical records are well-documented
It’s difficult, if not impossible, to manufacture medical evidence on the day of a hearing. Winning disability claims at the hearing level are generally well-documented, and there is a history of consistent medical records – you have seen your doctor consistently, you have followed your doctor’s treatment, your disabling condition has been diagnosed via medical testing that’s reliable, and you have statements from your doctor supporting your inability to work.
Developing the theory of your case, and compiling your medical evidence months before the Initial Application, the Reconsideration, and certainly the SSDI hearing is critical – that’s why it makes sense to hire a disability law firm like Qualify LLC to help you at each step in the process.
If the medical records that evidence your disabling condition are well-documented, and your testimony is consistent with that record, generally, you stand a much better chance of qualifying for SSDI disability benefits.
3. You either meet a listing, or your medical condition prevents you from sitting, standing, or getting through a sedentary 8-hour work day
If your medical condition prevents you from working at a simple entry-level job, which is sedentary in nature, then you stand a better chance of being approved for SSDI disability benefits. It’s not so much the severity of your actual conditions, as it is the impact those conditions have on your ability to actually perform work. If your condition would require you to be absent from a job frequently, to have frequent unpredictable breaks during the day, or if your condition simply prevents you from sitting for long periods of time, then you stand a better chance of being approved for SSDI disability benefits.
4. You have a doctor that will support you seeking SSDI Disability benefits
If your treating doctor supports your seeking SSDI disability benefits, that will increase your chances of being approved. If your doctor is willing to fill out a Residual Functional Capacity form, which indicates things like your range of motion, your ability to sit or stand for long periods, etc…then ultimately Social Security may find your claim more credible. A statement from your doctor will be compelling with regard to how your disability impacts your ability to perform simple work.
5. You have an attorney
Most attorneys won’t take your case at the Initial Application level – We do. Instead of waiting until you are denied, the social security attorneys at Qualify LLC want to hear from you before you apply. That way, we can analyze and develop a theory for your claim – for example, we may be able to ask your treating doctor for a statement that indicates whether or not you meet one of Social Security disability “listings of impairments”. We believe it’s important to develop your medical history, work history, and theory of your claim before you apply.