Obtaining Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits is notoriously difficult, with the vast majority of initial claims being denied.
What can you do about it? Plenty. A proactive approach can make it easier to avoid common problems that cause valid claims to be denied and put claimants on the long path of an appeal. Here are three steps to take:
1. Talk to your doctor and get their support
You don’t have to have a doctor’s permission to file for SSDI, but it definitely helps to get their support. Doctors aren’t in the business of telling people when they need to file for disability, so stop waiting. Instead, make an appointment and tell your doctor why you can no longer keep working and directly ask for their support. If they’re agreeable, let them know that the Disability Determination Services (DDS) used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) may be in contact with them for more information.
2. Provide as much information as you can on your application
SSA wants every scrap of relevant medical information it can get on your claim, and many claims are denied simply because medical providers never respond to the agency’s requests for records. If you can provide any medical records with your application, it may make it easier to avoid that issue – and your claim may be approved faster.
3. Stay in touch with SSA and be willing to cooperate
SSA (or DDS) may contact you directly for additional information about your residual functioning capacity and limitations caused by your disability, your work history, your education and training and more. You may also be asked to attend one or more consultative exams so that SSA can get a better picture of your condition. If you don’t respond to these requests for information or won’t cooperate, the decision is unlikely to go in your favor.
Because SSDI appeals can be so lengthy and difficult, it’s always best to do everything you can to circumvent common problems. That can help you get your SSDI claim approved in record time.