Workers with a severe mental or physical illness or injury can be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI). However, to receive these benefits, you must apply for them.
While the actual application for benefits can seem like a simple form to complete, there is a lot of work that goes into this process. And being organized can make the difference between whether an application is successful or not.
Talk to your doctors
Speaking with your doctors is essential. They can give you information and their medical opinion on matters like:
- What your prognosis is
- How debilitating a condition can be
- Whether they believe you can perform specific functions
- Complications that might arise in the near future
- Side effects of medication
- What the recovery process might look like
This vital data can affect whether the Social Security Administration (SSA) has sufficient reason to agree that you have a disability that prevents you from working.
Collect your paperwork
The application is not the only paperwork you will need to apply for benefits. You must also have supporting information. Thus, you can make the application process easier by collecting in advance:
- Personal data, including birth certificate and Social Security card
- Your medical records
- Contact information for the doctors and clinics you visit
- Medication details
- Employment history
- Summary of your job duties and responsibilities
- Tax returns for recent years
Having this information on hand can ensure you do not leave anything out or get something wrong, both of which can be grounds for denying a claim.
Get the help you need
Getting organized may not be a challenge under normal conditions. However, any added task can feel daunting when you are also dealing with a disabling injury or illness.
This is why it is crucial to get help as you prepare. An attorney can help you review your legal options; your doctors can connect you with a support network; your loved ones can help you with child care, transportation or completing daily chores so you can focus on your health.
The more help you get, the easier it can be to navigate the complexities of recovery.