Tips for Getting Your Disability Claim Approved | 10 Tips to Help Get Your SSDI Claim Approved | SSD | SSDI | SSI

When applying for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration you should keep the following ten tips in mind. While the process of applying for Social Security disability benefits can be long and confusing, the following ten tips can help smooth the process along and help you get clearer grasp on what it takes to file a successful claim for disability benefits with the Social Security Administration.

Most claims for disability benefits are denied at the first stage of the application process. However, many initial denials are successfully appealed by an experienced Social Security disability attorney. While it is possible to handle the application and appeals process by yourself, your chances of having your claim approved increase exponentially when you hire a lawyer to represent you.

An experienced Social Security lawyer can prove an essential help when you are disabled and seeking benefits from the federal government. Employing a Social Security attorney who is fully versed in disability laws will greatly improve your chances of having your claim approved.

Ten Tips When Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

1. Be detailed when filing your Social Security Administration paperwork
When filling out your Social Security paperwork, remember that is should contain an extremely detailed account of how your disability limits your daily activities. If you hire a Social Security lawyer to help you file your initial claim, he or she can guide you through the process to ensure you put needed level of detail in your application. For instance, your Social Security attorney might advise you to put a hour-by-hour recounting of what things you are able to do each day, including how long you are able to sit still for and how long you are able to do repetitive tasks. For more tips, visit the Starting the Social Security Disability Application Process page.

2. Keep in touch with your your SSDI lawyer and the SSA
If the Social Security Administration cannot locate you, they will not be able to approve your claim for disability benefits. If you are moving or changing your phone number, it is crucial you contact the Social Security Administration and give them your changed information. Similarly, if you are being represented by a Social Security lawyer or disability consultant, it is crucial you update them if your contact information changes. Your Social Security attorney will only be able to help you if he or she can find you!

3. Give your medical records to your Social Security lawyer
Your Social Security lawyer can review your medical records and let you know if any key information is missing from your Social Security disability form before you file your application. It is important for your Social Security disability application that your medical records provide an up-to-date and accurate picture of your medical condition.

4. Visit your doctor on a regular basis
When evaluating your claim for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration will evaluate your medical records that describe your condition. These medical records can be the most important thing when filing for disability so you should ensure they are complete and up-to-date.

Many low-cost medical providers are available to give you medical care if you qualify. Many people who ultimately receive Social Security disability status visit these providers. Find a low-cost medical provider in your area using this locator from the Health Resources and Services Administration.

5. Follow your doctor's recommended course of treatment
The Social Security Administration frowns upon applications that show your doctor has ordered a prescribed course of treatment for your condition and you neglected to follow it. This means attending any physical therapy sessions, taking your medications regularly, etc. If you follow your doctor’s treatment plan, you show the SSA that you have taken steps to get better.

6. Follow the Social Security Administration's instructions
While the Social Security Administration is evaluating your claim, the organization may ask you to do many things, such as furnish the agency with additional records, go to exams with doctors contracted by the SSA or clarify any questions the SSA has about your application. It is crucial that you comply with their requests in a timely manner, as if you do not, your application may for Social Security disability benefits may be denied.

7. If your initial application is rejected, do not despair, appeal!
While many first time applications for disability benefits are rejected (statistics say up to 60 percent), many people are find their disability applications to be approved on appeal. Collecting disability payments is a crucial lifeline for those in need and so there are many levels of appeal to insure your application does not fall through the cracks of the system. Hiring a lawyer to navigate the daunting bureaucracy of the Social Security Administration can improve your chances of having your claim approved at each level of the process. We can help put you in touch with a proven and tested Social Security law firm or Social Security attorney in your area today. For more on the appeals process, click here.

8. Appeal to your U.S. Senators and Congressman for help
If your application is running into roadblocks, it might be worth your time to pen a letter to your local congress person or senator about your specific situation. While your elected officials in Washington will not be able to influence the outcome of your application for Social Security benefits, having them put in a word for you (if they choose to do so) may help your application to be fast tracked, which can be crucial in a time of dire need. To locate your

9. See that your income falls below the SSA’s limits
The Social Security Administration has rigid limits for how much money you can make to qualify for benefits. The monthly limit for “Substantial Gainful Activity” is the most important limit to keep in mind when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Currently, this limit is $1,000 of monthly income for a sighted individual and $1,640 for a blind individual. If you are applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, SGA varies by state and marital status. For more on the criteria for Social Security disability, visit this page.

10. Do not abuse drugs or alcohol
The Social Security Administration will not approve claims if your condition is caused or worsened by drug or alcohol abuse. If you have abused these substances in the past, you should inform your doctor that you are no longer using them and make sure he notes this on your records. Certain types of disabilities can be worsened by drug or alcohol use or abuse and so the SSA is less likely to approve applications for individuals with those conditions for individuals who do not abstain from these substances.