“What conditions qualify you to receive Social Security disability benefits?” This question misses the point, just a little. When determining someone’s eligibility for benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not look so much at specific conditions. Instead, the SSA is more precisely concerned with exactly how the condition impairs your ability to work. The key to winning Social Security disability benefits is what the SSA calls your “residual functional capacity,” the work you are able to do in spite of the limits imposed by your condition. If you’re unable to work in southern California, you may be able to obtain Social Security disability benefits with the help of an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability lawyer.
To receive disability payments based on depression, the depression must be so severe that it has prevented you from working for twelve continuous months or is expected to prevent you from working for twelve continuous months. If you are disabled due to depression, be sure that you have medical records from a recognized mental health treatment source. Acceptable sources might include licensed or certified psychologists, licensed physicians including psychiatrists, and hospitals. Without adequate medical documentation, you may be asked to submit to a consultative examination performed by a physician who is paid by Social Security. A consultative examination usually does not lead to approval for disability benefits. It really does help to have an established history of treatment and to have records that document the severity of your condition.
Receiving disability benefits isn’t easy. Most initial applications are usually denied, and most applicants have to appeal. The paperwork is complicated. The more medical documentation you can produce, the better your chances are of winning benefits. Don’t even begin the process without help from a disability attorney who knows what is required to win your disability benefits. In southern California, if you’re unable to work, contact an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability lawyer as quickly as possible.