HOW TO GET SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

If I had a family member or close friend who was trying to get Social Security disability, here is the advice I would give them:

1. Take your time in completing the application and all the later forms they will send you. By rushing, you will either omit important facts or contradict yourself. Get someone you trust to help you complete the forms. A second pair of eyes. A second interpretation of the confusing questions.

2. List all your medical providers on the application with complete names, addresses and telephone numbers.

3. Explain how each of your significant medical problems affects your ability to work. Don't just say, "I have back pain." Explain. "Severe shooting pain in my mid to lower back limits my ability to lift more than 5 or 6 pounds and prevents me from standing more than 15 minutes at a time."

4. If Social Security schedules an examination for you, arrive 15 minutes early and take all your medications. Don't try to "sell" the doctor. Just let him/her perform the exam and be as cooperative as you can.

5. If your application is denied, file a written appeal within 60 days. At this point consider getting an attorney to help you. Being denied tells you that you are in for a long, difficult legal battle. It just gets more confusing from here. Get the help you need. Look for an agreement that you pay no legal fee unless you win and receive back pay. (No win, no pay).

6. Be totally honest with your attorney about everything. He/she is on your side.

7. Go into the quest for disability benefits with the right attitude: This may not be quick or easy, but I will not give up until I have had a judge review my case and hear me out."

The Forsythe Firm is a local firm dedicated to helping you get SSDI benefits with as much back pay as possible. We offer free telephone consultations and we never charge any fees or out-of-pocket costs until you win and collect past due benefits. Our offices serve Alabama and Tennessee.

We're as near as your phone. (256) 799-0297.