BASIC FACTORS IN A SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY CASE

Since no two disability cases are ever exactly alike, I caution people not to rely too much on what friends, neighbors or relatives tell them about such cases. 

I think similar caution must be used when reading about SSDI on the internet.  The information on the internet is usually accurate but most of it may not apply to you or your circumstances.  I talk to folks often who have reached very wrong conclusions from reading about Social Security on the internet. 

Your neighbor across the street may have gotten approved for disability benefits in 30 days with no problem at all.  But her situation may be totally different than yours.  And it is almost guaranteed that your experience with Social Security will not the same as hers.  (Different age, different illness, different past work history, different education, different judge...., etc.).

While all cases are different, there are some basic factors that help identify strong cases.

• The claimant has worked a long time and is covered by Social Security disability insurance (SSDI).
• There are adequate medical records to show a severe impairment that will last for at least 12 months.
• The claimant is currently under medical treatment and is compliant with the doctor's recommendations.
• A doctor will provide a treating source opinion.
• Age plays a big part.  Claimants age 50 and over have a better chance of being approved, though younger persons do get approved.
• Claimants whose past work has involved harder physical work (exertion) have a better chance than those who have worked sedentary (sit down) jobs.

Nobody can guarantee the outcome of the average SSDI claim.  However, an attorney/advocate who has practiced in the field for a long time can do a case evaluation and determine if a person meets the basic requirements for benefits.  At our firm, these evaluations are always free and without any obligation.

Reach us from anywhere in Alabama by calling (256) 799-0297.