Even if you are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, it can be challenging to get your application approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It can take a year or longer to receive a decision. However, you can take steps that will increase the chances that you will win your SSDI case and receive your benefits faster.
Strategy #1: Do Not Delay Filing Your Application
If you are unable to work due to a disability, do not wait to file your SSDI application. Given how long it can take to get an application approved, you do not want to delay filing your application—depleting your savings while you wait to receive benefits.
When filing your claim, be certain to list all your disabilities on the application. You also need to complete the application as completely as possible and attach all of your medical records and other supporting documents.
Strategy #2: Check the Status of Your Claim
Once you file your claim, you need to periodically check the status of your SSDI application. By doing this, you ensure that the SSA has all the information they need to make a decision on your claim. You can track the status on the SSA website or by calling the SSA and speaking to a representative.
Strategy #3: Get Medical Care for Your Disability
One of the best ways to improve the chances that you will win your SSDI case is to seek medical treatment for your disabilities and have good medical documentation of your medical conditions and the treatments you are receiving. Here are some key ways that you can do this:
- Doctor appointments. You need to go to all of your doctor appointments and follow your physician’s advice. If you have gaps in medical treatment, miss multiple appointments, and fail to follow through with your medical treatment, this hurts your disability claim and makes it look like your disabilities are not that serious.
- Specialists. If possible, you should see a specialist for your disability. He can provide you with the medical care you need and can provide you with additional documentation of your disability that can be very persuasive to the SSA.
- Diagnostic tests. If there are diagnostic tests that can help diagnose your disability, it is important to have these tests done and provide the SSA with the test results. They help document that you have a disability that qualifies you for benefits.
Strategy #4: Do Not Work Part-Time
Although you are allowed to work on a limited part-time basis when receiving SSDI benefits, it is best not to work when you file a claim for benefit. The SSA is much more likely to argue that you are not too disabled to work if you are employed at all while they are reviewing your application.
Strategy #5: Retain an Attorney
Another important step you need to take is to retain an experienced Social Security disability lawyer as soon as possible when you decide to apply for benefits. He can help you file your application correctly, obtain the documentation you need to support your claim, and fight for the benefits you deserve.
At The Injury and Disability Law Center, our skilled legal team is here to help you at any stage in your SSDI application process. To learn more about how we can help, call our Roswell office to schedule a free consultation today.
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