How to Improve Your Chances of Being Approved for SSDI Benefits

When you are disabled, the last thing you want to do is file for SSDI benefits only to have your claim denied. When you are preparing to file for benefits, there are several things you can do beforehand that can help your case.

See Your Doctors Regularly

If you see your doctor regularly, you will be able to establish a solid medical history that will allow you to prove that you are disabled. You will also want to comply with all medical treatments that your doctor encourages. 

If you do not comply with a particular treatment, this might be used as an excuse to deny your SSDI benefits, and you will want to have a good excuse for when you do choose to not receive a particular treatment recommended by your doctor. The administrative law judge will look for evidence that you are trying to resolve the impairment you are suffering from.

Get a Recommendation From Your Doctor

Your doctor's approval will go a long way toward helping you qualify for SSDI benefits. Your doctor will need to fill out paperwork prior to your approval. Also, make sure that your doctor agrees with you regarding the treatment you should receive. The good news is that you can always receive a second opinion.

Make It Easy to Contact You

Make sure to remain in contact with the SSA. Also, remain in contact with your SSDI attorney. If you need to move your address or make any other changes to your contact information, make sure to provide this to your attorney and the SSA so they can communicate with you.

Make Sure That Your Application Is Fully Complete and That It Was Done Properly

Gather together all of your necessary documents. Fortunately, the SSA can provide you with a checklist so you can make sure that you have everything. Then, you can determine what information is missing so you can obtain it.

Provide information about your medical condition, the treatments you have received, any hospitals or clinics you have visited, and the doctors or medical professionals you have spoken with. Then, provide information on your job status for the last 15 years or so. You must also provide information on your training and education so the SSA can determine if it's possible for you to transition into another line of work. If you ever feel stuck when applying for SSDI, remember that you can always speak with a disability attorney.

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