If you are filing – or if you’re thinking about filing – a new Social Security disability (SSD) claim, or if you are appealing the denial of a claim, you’ll need to begin compiling information about your disability at the earliest possible date. Important documents that you’ll need to back up your disability claim will include:
1. Your medical records and any other medical paperwork regarding your disability, including charts, exam results, and prescriptions and how they impacted your condition.
2. Your work history, including the jobs you’ve held in the last 15 years and details about the work. You’ll also be asked to provide records of the hours you worked, rates of pay, and how frequently you performed basic tasks.
Whenever you’re dealing with the Social Security Administration regarding disability benefits, the more information you have, the more likely you are to be successful. The Social Security Administration requires particular records when they first evaluate your claim and again whenever they hear appeals regarding denial of disability benefits or disputes over the dollar amount of benefits. A good disability lawyer will also need access to your medical and employment records so that you can be properly and aggressively represented.
How Benefits Are Calculated and Why Strong Evidence Matters
Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits are based on your work history and earnings during your years of employment. In general, the more you have earned over time, the higher your potential benefit amount, up to program limits.
When applying for disability benefits, having accurate and complete information is essential. An experienced Social Security disability attorney can help strengthen your case by gathering medical evidence, obtaining expert opinions, and ensuring your application is properly documented.
A skilled attorney can also guide you step-by-step through the application process and help address any issues that may arise along the way. This support can improve your chances of receiving the benefits you may be entitled to.
If you are unable to work due to a disability, contact an experienced Social Security disability attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and move your claim forward.