Applying for Social Security Disability benefits is often a long and challenging process. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires detailed information about your medical condition, work history, and how your disability affects your daily life. One key component of this process is the Adult Function Report (Form SSA-3373).
If you’re applying for disability benefits in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, or anywhere in the U.S., our Social Security disability lawyers at Ascend Disability can help you.
The Social Security Disability Application Process
The Social Security Disability application process is complex and can take several months or even years. Here’s a brief overview of the steps involved.
Initial Application
You start by submitting a claim to the SSA. This includes personal details, work history, medical records, and how your condition affects your ability to work.
Forms and Documentation
The SSA may require additional documentation, including the Adult Function Report, Work History Report, and medical records from healthcare providers.
Review and Decision
A disability examiner will review your claim, including all forms and medical documentation, to decide whether you meet the SSA’s definition of disability. The initial review process can take several months, and many applicants are denied on their first attempt.
Appeals Process
If your Social Security disability claim is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision. This process may involve a reconsideration request and a hearing before an administrative law judge. A disability lawyer can be especially helpful during the appeals process.
What is the Adult Function Report?
The Adult Function Report (Form SSA-3373) is a detailed questionnaire designed to gather information about how your disability affects your day-to-day activities. It provides the SSA with insight into your ability to function in various aspects of life, including personal care, social interactions, concentration, and mobility.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the Adult Function Report to evaluate if you meet the criteria for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Key Sections of the Adult Function Report
The Adult Function Report is divided into several key sections, each designed to assess different aspects of your life and how your disability affects your ability to perform daily tasks. These sections include:
Basic Information
Basic details about you, including your name, address, and contact information.
Daily Activities
This section asks for a detailed account of your typical day. You’ll describe tasks such as getting dressed, bathing, preparing meals, and doing household chores. Be specific about any challenges or limitations you face.
Social Functioning
You’ll describe your interactions with others, including how your disability affects your ability to socialize, handle stress, or adapt to changes in routine.
Concentration and Focus
In this part, you will describe your ability to concentrate on tasks, follow instructions, and complete them. Mention any difficulties you experience, such as distractions or memory issues. This information helps the SSA understand your cognitive functioning.
Physical Limitations
This section requires you to outline any physical challenges you face, including mobility issues, pain, or fatigue. Describe how these limitations affect your daily life and ability to perform tasks.
Medication and Treatment
Finally, this part focuses on any medications or treatments you are undergoing. List the medications you take, their purposes, and any side effects you experience.
By thoroughly completing these sections, you can provide a clearer picture of your daily challenges and support your disability claim more effectively.
Tips for Completing the SSA Adult Function Report
Completing the Adult Function Report is a crucial step in the disability claims process. To ensure that your report accurately reflects your situation, consider the following tips.
Be Honest and Specific
Provide clear, honest answers that reflect your daily challenges. Avoid exaggerating or downplaying your limitations. The SSA will compare your answers with your medical records and other documentation, so consistency is crucial.
Be Consistent
Consistency is key throughout the report. Ensure your answers align with each other. If you indicate that you struggle with certain activities, your explanations in other sections should support that statement. Inconsistencies may raise red flags and affect your claim.
Describe Average or Worse Days
When explaining how your disability affects your ability to function, don’t downplay your limitations by discussing life on your best days. Explain your limitations on an average day or your worst days. Describe the pain, fatigue, or other symptoms that make everyday tasks difficult. Be specific about how your condition limits your ability to work, care for yourself, or participate in activities.
Provide Real Examples
Instead of giving vague responses, offer concrete examples of how your disability affects your life. For instance, if you can’t walk long distances, explain that you can only walk for 10 minutes before needing to rest.
Don’t Leave Sections Blanks
Even if a question doesn’t seem relevant to you, make sure to answer every section. If a particular question doesn’t apply, write “N/A” (Not Applicable) rather than leaving it blank.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Filling out the Adult Function Report can be a challenging task. Many applicants make mistakes that can negatively impact their disability claims. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:
Not Reading the Entire Question
One of the most frequent errors is failing to read questions in their entirety. Each question is crafted to gather specific information about your daily life and limitations. Skimming can lead to incomplete or irrelevant answers. Take your time to understand what is being asked before responding.
Not Being Clear About Time and Effort
Another mistake is not providing clarity on how much time and effort daily tasks require. For example, if you struggle to complete household chores, specify how long it takes you and the difficulties you face. This detail helps the reviewer understand the extent of your limitations.
Not Providing Detailed Descriptions
Vague responses can undermine your report. Instead of saying you “have trouble” with certain activities, explain how these challenges manifest. Describe what you can and cannot do, along with any adaptations you have made. Detailed descriptions offer a fuller picture of your situation, which is crucial for your claim.
Not Including All Relevant Conditions
Be sure to list all medical conditions that affect your ability to work, even if they’re not your primary diagnosis. For example, if you have depression or anxiety in addition to a physical disability, make sure to mention it.
How a Disability Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the SSD application process can be challenging, especially when it comes to completing detailed forms like the Adult Function Report. A disability lawyer can provide invaluable assistance throughout the process:
- Disability Benefits Application: An experienced disability lawyer can help you fill out the Adult Function Report and other paperwork when applying for disability benefits.
- Gathering Medical Evidence: Your lawyer can work with your healthcare providers to gather the necessary medical documentation to support your claim.
- Avoiding Common Pitfalls: A lawyer can help you avoid common mistakes that lead to denials, such as inconsistent information or incomplete answers.
- Representing You in Appeals: If your claim is denied, a disability lawyer can represent you during the appeals process, increasing your chances of a successful outcome.
At Ascend Disability, we are committed to helping clients across Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and beyond secure the disability benefits they deserve. Whether you’re just starting your application or need help with an appeal, we’re here to provide expert guidance and support.
If you’re facing difficulties completing the Adult Function Report or navigating the SSD claims process, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for a free consultation. Let us help you get the disability benefits you need.
