Applying for disability on the basis of a physical impairmentIf you have a physical impairment that has prevented you from working for twelve months, or you expect that it will prevent substantial work (working at the SGA level), you should consider applying for Social Security disability or SSI. Social Security looks at all impairments in the same way and whether you have a physical or mental impairment the evaluation process is the same. Related: Should I apply for social Security disability or SSI? If you are applying for disability, you should be prepared to answer questions with regard to your medical treatment, sources of medical treatment, approximate dates of treatment, and medications. You will also need to know the types of work and approximate dates you performed your jobs over the past fifteen years if you have worked that long. Why 15 years? This is considered by SSA to be the relevant period. Jobs in this timeframe, of course, are only considered relevant if you actually worked the job long enough to actually the requirements of the job. Once your disability claim has been filed, it would not be a bad idea for you to have your physician complete an RFC (residual functional capacity) form or medical source statement to address the limitations imposed upon you by your physical impairment. If you are unable to get that, you could perhaps get them to complete a statement that provides a diagnosis, treatment, response to treatment, prognosis, and their opinion as to your limitations. Social Security disability rules state that treating physicians should be given weight by disability examiners in making a disability determination, however the opinions of these doctors must be backed up by objective medical evidence. If they just provide a statement that you are disabled, it will not help your disability claim. Social Security disability is based upon functionality, therefore any evidence that supports the allegation you are severely limited by your physical impairment will help. However, what about when you file for disability and have both Mental and Physical Conditions? This linked page addresses this. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: How long does it take to get SSI Disability Benefits? Can I get Retroactive SSI Disability Benefits? What Are The Odds of Winning A Social Security Disability Appeal? Social Security and Disability Benefits for Children Social Security Disability Representation - Lawyers and Representatives Winning Social Security Disability or SSI Disability Qualifications and How to Qualify for Benefits Social Security Disability and SSI Overview Requirements for Disability Social Security Disability and SSI Applications How long does it take for Social Security Disability SSI? Social Security Disability and SSI Denials Social Security Mental Disability Benefits Questions about SSI Disability Benefits Social Security Disability Back Pay Benefits Social Security Disability SSI Awards and Award Notices Social Security Disability Back Pay Benefits Social Security Disability SSI and Doctors |
