How to Maximize Your Chances for Disability

Applying and getting approved for Social Security Disability is a long and arduous process. Frequent denials, long wait times for case reviews and hearings and multiple independent medical examinations can make it difficult for you to get approved to receive the money you're due. If you've reached that point where you can no longer work and need Social Security Disability, however, there are things you can do to increase your odds of receiving approval.

Instructions

• 1

  Hire an attorney or a disability representative to represent you with your case. Some attorneys will not accept your case until you have a denial at the initial filing stage. On the other hand, many disability representatives will assist you every step of the way, including filling out and filing the initial application. Obtaining a qualified representative to help you increases your odds of ultimately receiving approval.

• 2

  Build your case through your medical records. Ask every doctor you see to make detailed notes in your chart. Make your physician aware that you have filed for disability, and stress the fact that your records should reflect the severity of your condition. Obtain copies of your records from your doctors, and build your own file in the event records are difficult to obtain in the future.

• 3

  Obtain your doctor's support. If your doctor is in agreement that you are disabled, ask her to fill out any paperwork she receives from the Social Security Administration and to write a letter on your behalf, stating the extent of your condition.

• 4

  Seek mental-health treatment. Many disabled people deal with mental issues such as anxiety and depression, in addition to their physical condition. Document all treatment received, and obtain copies of these records as well. Mental-health issues that prevent you from working often support a physical disability case. Some people qualify for disability benefits based solely on mental health issues.

• 5

  See a specialist. Rather than depending on the documentation offered by your family doctor, consult a specialist as well. Social Security sometimes gives more weight to the testimony of a specialist rather than that of a family practice doctor.

• 6

  Keep any and all appointments scheduled for you by Social Security. When it refers you to one of its doctors for an independent opinion, it's important that you show up and participate fully in the examination.