Getting an application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) approved can be complicated, even when you actually qualify under the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disabled. While a decision on an SSDI claim can take a year or longer, there are steps you can take to speed up the process and increase your chances of winning disability benefits.
File Your Application as Soon as Possible
SSDI applications can take a long time to process, so filing one as soon as possible is the best way to receive benefits sooner rather than later. Not to mention, being too disabled to work means you likely have limited resources. A delay in filing can lead you to spend more while waiting on benefits.
It is essential to include all your diagnosed disabilities, medical records, and other supporting evidence in your SSDI application to ensure you get the maximum benefits you’re entitled to. If any of these items are left out of an SSDI application, it will likely be denied, in which case, one of our disability advocates can help you gather additional documentation and file an appeal to reach approval.
Stay Up to Date on Your Claim’s Status
After filing an SSDI claim, it is advisable to check its status periodically to ensure the SSA has all the necessary information and that nothing is missing. You can track the status of your SSDI application through the SSA’s website or by calling and speaking to an SSA representative.
Seek Appropriate Medical Care
Seeking medical treatment for your disabilities is crucial to the success of an SSDI application. Keep a complete record of all medical tests and treatments administered for your conditions to help strengthen your case. This includes documentation of doctors’ appointments, any specialists you may have seen, and the results of any diagnostic tests used to identify your disabilities. This information shows the SSA that you are taking your disability seriously and can thereby increase the chances of approval in an SSDI claim.
Try Not to Work while Your SSDI Claim in Pending
SSDI benefits are only awarded to individuals who are too disabled to work. Working while your SSDI claim is pending can therefore contradict your claim for disability benefits and harm your chances of being approved. It is true that you can work on a part-time basis, but it’s better to do so in a Trial Work Period once you’re already receiving SSDI benefits.
Work with an Attorney to Get Your SSDI Application Approved
Seeking representation from a Social Security disability lawyer is one of the best ways to maximize your chances of getting approved for SSDI benefits. Our disability advocates can advise you on how to file an SSDI application, help obtain additional evidence to support any necessary appeals, and get you the benefits you need and deserve.
Call our team of attorneys today for more tips and tricks for SSDI application approval.
