SSDI and Medical Records
Applying for SSDI and medical records go hand-in-hand. To have the best SSD /SSDI application possible, you should always include accurate and complete medical records. Here are some tips on how to do so:
Obtain Your Own Copies
- Get your hands on all of your medical records for at least a year before the injury or condition in question.
- Don’t forget hospital stays, specialists, therapists, etc.
- Make 2 full copies of the records (1 for you, 1 for the application). The SSD office will not always make full copies on their own.
- If you aren’t able to get a copy yourself, make sure to include a detailed medical history. Write out all of the treatments you’ve received and the full and accurate contact information for each health care provider who treated you.
Keep in Touch With Your Disability Determination Specialist
- Mail or fax your records in to your disability determination specialist. If you already have a case open, you can call your specialist to find out what records are missing.
- Highlight or mark your name and Social Security # on each record.
- If you get more treatment or tests, update your specialist.
Let Your Doctor Speak for You
Your doctor can write a letter for you on your behalf, but the letter needs to be extremely specific. For example, rather than saying “this person is disabled,” the letter should say exactly how your injury would affect a certain work-related activity like lifting or bending your arms.
Don’t Be Shocked by SSD / SSDI Denial
No matter how well-prepared you are or how legitimate the injury, denial is extremely common. If you’re denied, don’t fret. You can appeal, and an attorney can help to make sure that your SSD application is as effective as possible.
Are you unsure about whether or not you qualify for Social Security Disability benefits? Contact a long term disability lawyer Memphis, TN clients recommend from Darrell Castle & Associates by filling out the form below. The conversation is totally free.