SUREST WAY TO GET DISABILITY BENEFITS

Doctors are really the key to getting approved for Social Security disability benefits.

Doctors cannot "sign up" or "approve" anyone for benefits.  They can provide medical evidence that allows Social Security to make a favorable decision, however.

Federal regulations require that disability be proven by objective medical evidence:  tests, laboratory findings, examinations, X-ray or MRI imaging, etc.  It is never enough merely to claim disability; one must prove disability.

Here is the best approach to getting approved for SSDI or SSI benefits:

1)  Tell Social Security about every doctor, hospital, clinic, counselor, psychologist or other medical provider that you have seen within 12 months prior to your disability date.  Social Security only checks the records of the providers you tell them about.  If you fail to list a provider, his or her records are not looked at.

2)  Talk to your doctor and see if he/she will provide a form to Social Security called a "medical source statement."  This form lists all your work related impairments in detail.

3)  Realize that most (up to 70%) of disability claims are denied.  However, these should be appealed and may be won at a hearing.  In fact, most claims that get paid these days are paid after a hearing is held.  You only have 60 days to file an appeal after you are denied.  This rule is very strict.

If you see a disability claim in your future, speak to your doctor.  Ask if he/she will support your claim.  Also ask about whether the doctor will provide you with a Medical Source Statement.^^

^^My office will provide you with a medical source statement upon request (free).
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THE FORSYTHE FIRM
7027 Old Madison Pike - Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806
PH (256) 799-0297