When you have a physical or mental problem that is bad enough to prevent you from working, you might consider applying for SSDI. Unfortunately, a lot of people experience a denied SSDI claim the first time that they apply for it. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to reduce your chances of having your claim denied. Here are eight tips to avoid being denied for SSDI.
Have a Supportive Physician
Make sure that you have a supportive physician for your case. When you have found a doctor who will support your application for SSDI, have them complete a very detailed statement of why you’re disabled and are therefore unable to work.
Residual Functional Capacity Forms
A common reason that an otherwise qualified person would be denied a SSDI claim is the failure to obtain a detailed residual functional capacity (RFC) form. You must have both the RFC form and appropriate records from your doctor.
Keep Your Medical Records up to Date
Submit medical record copies, with any recent updates, with your application and with any appeal.
Cooperate
Fully cooperate with your claims examiner that is assigned to your case. This will include promptly responding to notices and letters, along with going to DDS-scheduled medical exams.
Get Updates
Keep requesting updates on your case’s status. If you don’t have representation, it’s possible to get updates from DDS by phone.
Watch Your Deadlines
Don’t allow any essential deadlines lapse regarding your claim.
Be Friendly
Keep a great relationship with the individuals who are involved in your case. These individuals include your local office’s claims representative, the DDS claims examiner and your representative or attorney if you’ve retained one for assistance. Having a courteous, friendly relationship with people is going to give you a better chance of winning your case than if you are demanding and brash.
Keep Your Doctor Appointments
One of the biggest things to remember is that you have to attend any and all doctor appointments that you have. Going to your doctor appointments is going to show, more than anything, that you do have medical problems and that you are staying on top of them.
When you are trying to get SSDI, you want to show that you really have the problems for which you are applying. The tips above won’t guarantee a win in SSDI court, but they will help. If you are denied the first time around, and most people are, it will help to contact an attorney to help you with the process.