“Dos and Don’ts” for Increasing Your Chances of Getting SSDI Benefits

When applying for SSDI benefits, there are plenty of ways to increase, and ruin, your chances. What are the do’s and don’ts for increasing your chances of getting SSDI benefits?

Dos for Increasing Your Success Rate

Aside from simply doing everything you can to research the SSDI benefits acquisition process, and learning all you can about how and why claims are accepted, there are several things you can do to increase your chances of approval:

• Take your time when completing any official forms you will need to submit; every document should be filled out completely, and with total accuracy and honesty. Better yet, hire a social security disability attorney from the initial application will keep things consistent and you will raise your chances of approval, and get your money faster.
• Try to be prepared ahead of time by making sure any and all medical/important documents you’re going to need are all organized and easily accessible.
• Keep a personal journal handy to detail all of the symptoms and struggles you deal with on a daily basis, as well as your treatment schedule/dates, and a list of names and dates for all SSA representatives, medical providers, and others you’ve spoken with about your disability.
• Be courteous and respectful to everyone you speak with, and cooperate fully with whatever is requested of you – especially with your doctors; you never know how much influence someone has until it’s too late.
• Talk to your doctor about your intention to file for SSDI benefits and make sure they’re onboard so they can help you with assembling your necessary documents, verifying your disability, and more. If they do not agree with your decision to pursue benefits, try and find a medical care provider that does, and will support you through the process.
• If you find out that you have been denied for SSDI benefits, use your 60 day appeal period to get your appeal filed as soon as possible.

Don’ts for Increasing Your Success Rate

Having a disability means there are already plenty of things that you can’t do; but there are also things you shouldn’t do when you have a disability – especially if you’re seeking SSDI benefits.

• Don’t stop your medical treatments when seeking SSDI benefits, but instead try and get treated for everything that’s bothering your or affecting your health/happiness. The more thorough the care you seek, the greater the chances your disability will be taken more seriously.
• Don’t be an open book on social media. No one else needs to know the specifics of your disability, or your unique application process; it’s far too easy for what you say to be taken out of context and/or perceived the wrong way.
• Don’t forget to keep up with your claims once they’ve been submitted, you will want to check in on them often so you can stay fully informed of exactly what’s going on with your approval.
• Don’t try to collect any kind of unemployment benefits, or try to maintain employment, while submitting an SSDI claim. The more money you’re seen as having, regardless of the source, the less likely you will be seen as in-need for the SSDI benefits you’re seeking
• Don’t miss any of your important deadlines, interviews, doctors appointments, or other engagements your attendance is required. Being punctual and prepared shows that you’re taking your claims seriously.
• Finally, don’t assume that you can’t afford an incredible social security disability attorney just because you’re seeking SSDI benefits – it may even lead to you getting frustrated and giving up! Applying for benefits can be a tricky process, but our esteemed attorneys at Aiello Law Group would love help you navigate every twist and turn at no upfront cost!

Call us, today, at 313.964.4900 or fill out the form in the sidebar or on our contact page, and learn more about how we can help you.