SSD Myth Busters Episode 26
Myth: Should You List Every Ailment on Your SSD Application?

A common instinct when applying for Social Security Disability is to list every ailment you've ever experienced, thinking more information will strengthen your case. Attorney Josh and Jeremy Worley advises against this approach. Instead, you should list every impairment that is medically documented in your records. If you've discussed a condition with your doctor and it appears in your medical file, it should be included—whether physical or mental. However, listing conditions that aren't documented, or that have resolved (like a pulled hamstring from years ago), can actually hurt your credibility by making it appear you're throwing everything at the wall to see what sticks.

Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety are important to include, even if they stem from physical limitations. While mentioning these to your primary care doctor is valuable, Social Security gives more weight to treatment from specialists like psychiatrists or counselors. If you have a mental condition but haven't sought treatment, listing it on your application may trigger a consultative examination. The overarching rule is: if it's not in your medical records, it effectively didn't happen. Be honest with your doctors, don't downplay your symptoms, and ensure everything is properly documented.

Myth Verdict

Busted. You should not list every ailment you've ever had. Instead, list only those impairments that are medically documented in your records. Listing undocumented or resolved conditions can undermine your credibility and harm your claim.

Key Insights

  • Only list documented conditions: Include ailments that appear in your medical records and have been discussed with your doctor.
  • Don't list resolved issues: Old injuries that have healed (e.g., a pulled hamstring from 5 years ago) should not be included.
  • Mental health matters: Depression and anxiety are important to list, especially if documented or treated by a specialist.
  • Documentation is everything: If it's not in your medical records, it didn't happen—be thorough with your doctors.
  • Avoid "doing pretty good": Even casual downplaying of symptoms can appear in records and hurt your credibility.
  • Specialist treatment helps: Mental conditions carry more weight when treated by a psychiatrist or counselor.