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Tips on Winning a Disability Case

For many disabled individuals, winning disability benefits is a vital concern. The Social Security and Disability Resource Center states that only three out of 10 applicants are approved for Social Security disability benefits the first time they apply. For many people, winning a disability claim is crucial to keeping a home and possessions. Important tips can help ensure your claim is decided quickly and favorably.

  1. Eligibility

    • To be eligible for disability benefits, you must be unable to work due to a condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Other requirements vary depending on the applicant's age and length of time the person worked to contribute to the Social Security fund. Visit the Social Security Administration -- or SSA -- website to use the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool, or BEST. BEST will lead you through a series of specific questions to help determine your eligibility for disability benefits. If you are not able to use a computer, call the SSA hotline and a representative will help determine your eligibility.

    Preparation

    • Lack of preparation is why many disability claims are denied, so be as prepared as possible. Choose a physician who specializes in your condition and can verify that you are disabled and unable to work in your current condition. Make a list of the prescription medications and treatments you are taking for your condition. Obtain medical records from any hospitals, clinics or physical-therapy centers where you have received treatment. Make copies of all labs and diagnostic test results. Providing this information ahead of time will help your case get approved much faster.

    Application Process

    • It takes time to process disability applications, so apply for benefits as soon as you become disabled. You must complete a Social Security benefits application and a Disability Report. Complete the disability benefits application online, by phone or make an appointment at a local Social Security office. You can file a Disability Report online, or print the form out and return the completed form to your local Social Security office. Provide copies of pertinent information, such as your Social Security card, birth certificate, a work summary of the kind of work you did and a copy of your most recent Wage and Tax Statement.

    Appeal

    • Approval or denial of your disability application depends on several factors. After meeting basic SSA requirements, your application is sent to the Disability Determination Services for your state. Disability specialists speak to doctors, hospitals and clinics about your condition then notify you when they have reached a decision about your disability claim. Check in often with your assigned claims representative for an update on your application. If you are denied disability benefits, file an appeal as soon as possible. During the appeals process, the SSA will review your case and send you a letter explaining their decision. If denied benefits, hire an attorney familiar with disability benefits who has a record of winning appeals.

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