Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims can take months to decide. And if your claim is not supported with adequate medical evidence, it is likely to be rejected. It is estimated that up to two-thirds of first-time SSDI applicants are denied. This further sets them back in what can be an already complicated and frustrating experience.
Our Fort Worth SSDI benefits attorneys assist applicants with the disability claims process. Here we suggest some of the medical evidence you can start collecting now.
Why Strong Medical Evidence Is So Important
To qualify for SSDI, the applicant must have a disability. But “disability” is a term that differs from what most of the public knows it to mean. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict guidelines that define what a disability is. If you fail to show you are disabled according to the SSA’s standards, your claim might be rejected.
For the SSA to consider you to be disabled, these factors must apply:
- You have a medical condition that prevents you from performing the work you did previously.
- Because of your disability, you are unable to adjust to other types of work.
- Your disability is expected to last one year or more or result in your death.
If you can still work, or your condition will likely improve within a year, SSA will probably deny your claim. The problem, of course, is that both of these determinations rely on someone at SSA making a judgment call. A claims reviewer could examine the evidence you’ve submitted and decide, incorrectly, that you don’t qualify.
While you can appeal the decision, it would be better to have strong medical evidence at the outset. Our Fort Worth SSDI attorney therefore suggests gathering this evidence now.
What Evidence Do I Need for an SSDI Claim?
As a general rule, the more supporting evidence you have, the more likely your SSDI claim will be approved. We recommend getting started by organizing the following:
Medical Records From Your Primary Care Physician
According to the SSA, it’s not enough for your doctor to say you are disabled. There must actually be records to back it up. Gather anything you have related to your disabling condition.
Medical Records From Other Healthcare Professionals
Your primary care physician may, at some point, have sent you to another medical professional. This may have included a licensed or certified specialist who handles conditions such as yours. Make sure you have any records from these professionals ready.
X-Rays and Other Scans
Most people automatically think of X-rays when they think of imaging scans. However, there are other forms such as MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds. Anything related to your disability should be included with your other records.
Test Results
Depending on your disability, you may have had numerous tests performed. These could have been used for various aspects of managing your condition. Document any tests that were used to detect, diagnose, treat, monitor, or evaluate your disability.
Any Other Relevant Medical Documents
If you visited any sort of hospital or outpatient clinic related to your disability, make note of it. Check with your primary care physician as well. Get the contact information for these facilities, then reach out to get your records if you don’t already have them.
We Can Help Build Your Disability Case
It’s a good idea to retain a knowledgeable Fort Worth disability benefits attorney during this initial stage. We can work with you and your doctors to collect the supporting medical evidence you will need. Then, when you’re ready, we can help you apply to SSA. If your claim has already been denied, we can assist with an appeal, too. Call Ascend Disability Lawyers, LLC today to learn more.
