SSDI Benefits and the claimant's ability to workThe social security administration's definition of disability focuses on a claimant's ability to work. And, for this reason, disability adjudicators (disability examiners at the application and reconsideration levels and administrative law judges at the hearing level) look for evidence of functional limitations when reviewing medical evidence. Specific examples would include a claimant's limitations with regard to the ability to sit, stand, walk, stoop, crouch, reach overhead, lift more than a certain weight or grasp objects. Unfortunately, most treatment notes and hospital records are lacking in this regard, i.e. they fail to document a claimant's functional limitations, past or present. Yet, this is exactly the type of information that the social security administration is looking for when deciding claims. 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? |
