How to Get Approved for Social Security Disability Payments

Nothing can be more frustrating than dealing with the government, particular if it has to do with your health. And dealing with your disability payment from the Social Security Administration is no exception. It's the forms that you must complete, the medical records that you must gather, not to mention the number of telephone calls you are likely to have to make that can make you wonder if it's worth pursuing.Take heart. Here are a few things you can do to get approved for your Social Security Disability claim.

Instructions

1. Don't leave any stone unturned. Before filling out the forms, know what is required. Ask someone at Social Security if you have questions, prior to completing the forms. For example, if you are asked for specific medical records, get them all, and include how that doctor can be reached for follow-up questions. Often, applicants have the misguided belief that the government will take care of them, and they forego the details as a result of this thinking. However, it can be those details that can make a difference.

2. Make a strong medical case. If you see a doctor on a regular basis, ask for his help in building a case that will result in a favorable outcome. Obtain from Social Security a copy of the Functional Capacity form and ask your doctor to complete it. If you have avoided seeing a doctor because you do not have health insurance, check with your county's health department for help. You'll need the help of a doctor to provide an evaluation; and leaving that task up to the doctors at Social Security is a mistake. If need be, borrow from friends or family, but it is essential that you have the medical evidence to back up your claim.

3. Appeal your claim if it is denied by Social Security, because almost ¾ of all claims are initially turned down. Avoid being discouraged because denial of your claim is simply the first step in the process that, unfortunately, can take years before you are successful. The process culminates with a hearing where the vast majority of claims are ultimately approved. With the Social Security Administration, tenacity does pay off even though it might take longer than you had hoped.

4. If you are to have a hearing, be well prepared. Many people do hire attorneys who specialize it disabilities and represent other clients before a judge at such hearings.Typically, they have worked with many Social Security issues and are familiar with what is necessary to succeed. They will amass the evidence and make your case for you. However, if you cannot afford to be represented by such counsel, being very well prepared often leads to a positive outcome.

Tips & Warnings

• Know the rules if you need to work while your Social Security claim is in process. Social Security has established work standards in the form of Substantial Gainful Activities, or SGA. In 2008, the SGA limits those receiving disability benefits to $940, monthly. If you exceed that amount, your claim will be denied.

Resources

• More about disability claims