HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES!

Filing for Social Security disability? There are things you can do to improve your chances.

Here are a few of them:

1. Get consistent medical treatment.

2. Tell Social Security about all your doctors or other providers.

3. Describe your past work in detail on the application forms, especially lifting.

4. Include both physical and mental disorders.

5. Consider getting an attorney's help.

6. Describe your disability in terms of functional limitations: What you can/can't do.

7. Return all forms, return all phone calls and attend any appointments.

8. Ask your doctor to complete a form called "Residual Functional Capacity"

9. Appeal any negative decisions within 60 days (a firm deadline).

10. Never go to a hearing without your attorney. Never.

*Most Social Security disability claims are denied twice: first at the application level, and again at the Reconsideration level. Your best chance for approval comes at the Hearing level; however, it's extremely importantly that your hearing appeal is well prepared and supported by objective medical evidence. You must prove your case, not just explain why you believe you are disabled. Proving things is the work of an attorney/advocate.