TELLING THE TRUTH ISN'T ENOUGH

Many people have a misinformed view of what it takes to get Social Security disability. Many believe that you just go before a judge and tell the truth. If the judge believes you, your case is won.

Unfortunately, this ignores the most important aspect of winning. That's the medical and vocational evidence to prove the case. Yes, the case must be proven using hard evidence--showing how the claimant meets the requirements set forth in the rules and regulations.

Even if the judge believes that you are disabled, your claim cannot be paid without objective medical and vocational evidence. Proving the case is the job of your attorney or representative/advocate. Medical exhibits should clearly prove your residual functional capacity. Vocational exhibits should explain both the exertion level and skill level of your past work.

Getting hard medical evidence can be difficult. Using it effectively to prove your case can also be challenging.

The law requires VERY SPECIFIC things be proven before you disability case can be paid. Get someone to help you do this. I have never had a client tell me, after a hearing, "I think I could've done this by myself."