Mistakes to Avoid When Pursuing a Social Security Disability Claim
Close up of Social Security Disability Claim Form with writing hand
The disability program of the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers benefits to those with a medically determinable disability that prevents them from working. Applying for these benefits can be complicated. Often, you may need to fight for the benefits you are entitled to. Due to the complexities in the application process, many people can make mistakes that can compromise their disability claim. You can avoid these mistakes by working with an experienced disability claims attorney. These mistakes include the following:
Not Giving Sufficient Medical Evidence
The SSA denies a lot of claims because of a lack of medical evidence. To ensure you can provide the agency with enough evidence, collect your medical records and history and document your current medical condition and impairments. Also, make sure to follow up on documents that SSA can’t collect and provide these to the agency. Ensure you constantly communicate with your
Not Being Honest About Your Condition
You will be asked how your disability impacts your work capacity and activities of daily living. When you talk about your medical condition and symptoms to the SSA, ensure you do it accurately and honestly. Your disability descriptions should match across medical documents. Contradictions can weaken your claim.
Not Following Prescribed Treatments
As the SSA evaluates your disability, it wants to know if you have been following your treatment plan as prescribed. Not following your treatment and failing to give a reasonable explanation for doing so can result in the denial of your claim.
Make sure to follow the recommendations of your doctor. Your doctor’s support is vital during your application for benefits and during the appeals process. Usually, the SSA reviews claims, focusing on determining whether an applicant is doing everything to improve their condition.
Not Submitting Complete Information
As you pursue a disability claim, there are questionnaires or forms you need to complete. Some of these forms just require your signature. But others involve answering questions regarding your work history or disability. You must respond to SSA requests promptly to have a chance for benefits.
Not Working with a Disability Lawyer
Applying for Social Security disability benefits is a challenging process to navigate on your own. You may not understand legal and medical details. That is why you need legal assistance at each step of the process. They will ensure you provide accurate and complete information that strengthens your claim.
