Providing a Thorough Physician Statement for Your Social Security Benefits Case

09/25/09

Q: When filing for social security disability, what should you do to increase the likelihood that your application will be approved?

A: Although most disability applications for social security benefits are not approved after the initial review process, there are definitely some things you can do to make sure you give your case the best foundation. The number one thing you can do is to make sure you have a physician who is on your side. The disability examiner for your case places a lot of value on the statement provided by your doctor. Delayed receipt of medical records is one of the main reasons disability claims get hung up in the review process. Assure that you have submitted thorough and current copies of all your medical data. This also applies if you file for reconsideration or appeal for a hearing. Always be cordial and polite when dealing with Social Security. The representatives want to reach a social security benefits decision as quickly as possible, so are not working against you. By being as cooperative and available as you can, it makes it easier for them to fairly process your case. Another factor to give your case the best chance is to not miss a deadline. Knowing where your file is in the cycle and what deadline dates are needed for forms will help you stay on top of your social security benefits case. Some claimants are overwhelmed when applying for social security benefits. If you fear you cannot properly apply or respond to requests, you would be wise to consider hiring a social security attorney.

Q: How do you make sure your doctor has provided all the required information in his letter?

A: When submitting a disability claim for social security benefits, the statement from your doctor should have three main things. The statement should start off by detailing your medical condition. Secondly, your physician should explain how your condition affects your activity and ability to work. The third thing the letter will need to elucidate is the outlook for your injury and your recovery.

Q: Are reconsideration and appeal the same thing in the social security benefits process?

A: Both are part of the appeals process. The first step if your claim was not approved after the initial review process is to file for reconsideration. Paperwork for reconsideration has to be filed no later than sixty days after your claim denial. If your claim is not awarded benefits after reconsideration, your next step is to request a hearing. Some states may be skipping the reconsideration process right now, so check with your claims representative to see whether you should file for reconsideration or move on to the hearing process.