How to Qualify for Disability
When you have become disabled, you must find a way to pay your bills and provide for the necessities of life. Applying for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration is the primary way of doing that. Once you've applied for disability, your claim is reviewed by a representative of the Social Security Administration and then forwarded to the Disability Determination organization in your state. Both organizations look at your work history, medical records and physical capabilities to decide if you qualify for benefits.
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Instructions
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Submit your initial application through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website (see Resources). Both the initial application and the adult disability report provide a caseworker with information about your physical condition and work history.
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Explain to your primary physician that you're applying for disability. Request that she file all necessary paperwork as soon as possible. The SSA caseworker will contact her to obtain that information. Contact all other doctors who have diagnosed or treated you and make the same request.
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Ask your primary physician to fill out a residual functional capacity form. He will be able to obtain one. The form explains your physical abilities according to your doctor. It is considered a professional opinion and useful because your doctor is more familiar with you than the SSA doctors are.
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Write a letter explaining the physical difficulties you have. Focus on physical limitations, like how long you can stand or sit up. Discuss whether you can perform basic tasks for yourself, like making dinner or clothes shopping. Discuss mental limitations, like your ability to follow instructions or focus. Showcase the difficulties that have come with your disability. Give a copy of this letter to your SSA caseworker.
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Submit all paperwork as soon as it is requested. Follow deadlines closely so that your claim doesn't get rejected. If you have to file an appeal at any point, file it as soon as you receive notice. Hire a disability attorney to help you with any appeals after you submit your initial application.
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