Four Types of Information You Need for an SSDI Application
When you learn that the first step in seeking benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program is filing an application, you probably assume that the process is as simple as filling out some forms. After a few minutes of reviewing the application requirements, you will soon realize the complexities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) needs extensive information before approving you for benefits, so it is no surprise that up to one-third of initial applications are rejected.
To increase the likelihood that your application will be approved the first time around, you must ensure that you include all of the essential details for the SSA claims examiner. Working with a Maryland SSDI lawyer will give you an edge when preparing the four items you need to support your application.
- Work History: SSDI is essentially an insurance program, in which you pay “premiums” through mandatory deductions from your paycheck. Therefore, SSA will need to see your work history for the last few years to ensure that you qualify by paying enough into the Social Security disability system. In addition, your previous occupations are important for ensuring the disability examiner understands and properly categorizes your work. Providing insufficient information about your work history could lead to an improper work classification, which may result in a denial.
- Medical Records: Your disabling medical condition is the focus of your claim for SSDI benefits, so it is critical to be as thorough and specific as possible when completing your application. Make sure to include all of your medical records, including documentation generated from:
- Every visit to the emergency room;
- Your doctor’s appointments;
- Treatment from medical specialists;
- Lab screenings and test results; and,
- Any other encounter with medical professionals.
- Alleged Onset of Disability: Your AOD is important because it is your view of when you believe your disability began. It affects your SSDI benefits because you could be eligible to receive backpay to this date – which could be several months before you file your application and/or when you receive approval from SSA.
- Established Onset of Disability: While your AOD is when YOU allege that your disability began, SSA could take a different position by assigning you an EOD. The difference between the two could lead to a difference in how far your benefits go for purposes of backpay. For instance, you might state an AOD of March, but SSA gives you with an EOD for September based upon your application. When you did not provide sufficient information to support your claim that you became disabled in March, you miss out on several months of benefits.
Contact a Maryland SSDI Attorney for Assistance with Your Claim
When you have an SSDI lawyer help you with gathering essential information and completing your application, you increase the chance that you will be approved for benefits right away. Omissions and mistakes can result in delays, and your claim could even be denied entirely. For assistance with the application process and other stages of the SSDI approval process, please contact the Maryland Social Security disability lawyers at the Law Offices of Steinhardt, Siskind and Lieberman, LLC to schedule a consultation today.
