DISABIILTY APPLICATIONS: DEALING WITH THE DDS / SOCIAL SECURITY
The Disability Determination Service (DDS) is located in Birmingham, AL. This is a state run agency contracted by Social Security to examine disability claims and make the initial decision as to whether a claimant meets the rules for disability benefits. Here are some of the things DDS typically does with a new claim: Order records from doctors and other medical providers Analyze medical records to determine what conditions/impairments you have Schedule any medical exams that they feel you need Obtain your past work history and classify your past relevant jobs Determine what your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) is Decide whether you are eligible for benefits under Social Security rules Deny a majority of claims that they review (About two-thirds of all claims) Here is why the DDS will usually deny your disability application (first step): DDS will decide that there is other work you are able to sustain, even if you cannot do any of your past relevant work. (Step