How to get disability, tip 4When filing a claim, try to do so in person at a local SSA field office. At the very least, do this over the phone. In either case, you will be able to speak with an SSA claims representative. If you use the online process, something that SSA highly promotes, you will not have the chance to ask direct questions about the process of filing. Among other things, a claims rep may help you to properly indicate what your onset date is (when your condition became disabling) and may also help ensure that you list all of your disability conditions, small and large. Make sure that when you apply for disability, you remember to submit complete information about your history of medical treatment and your work history for the 15 year period prior to becoming disabled. Some people can be approved through a Social Security listing. However, SSD and SSI decisions are usually made as "medical-vocational" decisions, meaning that your age, functional limitations, work experience, and education will be figured into the determination of whether you can A) go back to your old job and B) if you can find some type of other work to perform. If the decision process finds that your condition or conditions cause too many problems for you to return to work activity at a substantial and gainful level, you may be approved for disability benefits. The accuracy of the information you provide includes the following: where and when you received treatment, what type of treatment you received, job titles, good descriptions of what was done on any job you worked. Failing to give good descriptions for jobs you have held puts you in the position of having your work history misidentified, which can have an impact on your case, possibly leading to a denial when the case should have been approved. 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: What is the criteria for disability benefits in North Carolina? Financial Help Filing For Disability When filing for disability list all conditions When to apply for disability Should you get a lawyer before applying for disability? What happens after I apply for disability? SSI SSD disability filing tips Getting a Disability Lawyer in Alabama How long can it take to get disability in Colorado? |
