TIPS FOR NEW SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY APPLICATIONS

New applications for Social Security disability are assembled by a local Social Security office, then forwarded to the Disability Determination Service (DDS) for a decision.  The DDS is a state agency operating under contract with Social Security.  DDS will make the initial medical decision as to whether a claimant meets the rules to receive disability or SSI payments. Approximately 30 percent of applicants will be approved for benefits at this level while about 70 percent will be denied.  Upon denial, the claimant has 60 days to appeal by asking for a request for a hearing before a US administrative law judge.  That request must be made in writing.

 The chances of being approved at the hearing are better because the claimant can be represented, can answer the judge's questions about his/her disability, can provide witnesses to testify and may submit additional medical evidence.  Also, the vocational witness that testifies for Social Security may be questioned or examined by the claimant's representative during the hearing.

 If you are about to file a new (initial) claim for disability with the Social Security Administration, here are some tips that may improve your chances:

 1)  Talk with your doctor to see if he or she believes that your claim is reasonable based on your medical conditions.  Ask the doctor to provide a Residual Functional Capacity or Medical Source Statement that specifies your limitations on performing work-related activities.  If you can obtain this form, submit it to the Disability Determination Service as soon as the DDS contacts you about your claim.

 2)  Be diligent in completing all the forms Social Security sends you, including all the forms they will send you in the mail.  The application that you file on line is only part of the paperwork.  Later, you will get a Function Report and a Work History Report to complete and return.  You may also get specific questionnaires to fill out and return.  Complete all these forms completely and carefully and return them promptly.

 3)  Be sure to list all of your treating doctors, clinics, hospitals, counselors and other medical providers on your application--giving their names, addresses, telephone numbers and dates of treatment.  Estimate dates if you don't know them exactly.

 4)  List all side effects of the medications you take.  Side effects can add to your impairment or inability to work.

 5)  Be absolutely truthful.  Never exaggerate.  However, don't minimize, either.  Strive for a fair, balanced report of your symptoms that paints an accurate picture of your lifestyle, limitations, abilities and activities.

 6)  If you get that dreaded denial letter in the mail, don't despair.  File an appeal within 60 days and take your claim to the next level.  Denials are not the end, only the beginning in this long, complicated and often frustrating process.

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