If your physician recommends you stop working for medical reasons, you may be eligible to obtain Social Security disability benefits. However, it is not guaranteed. Unfortunately, getting SSDI benefits can be challenging – even for qualified applicants. Here are four important things you should know about getting Social Security disability benefits after being recommended to stop working by your doctor.
1. Your Medical Records Must Confirm a Disability
First and foremost, your medical records must confirm you have a qualifying disability or impairment. It is these records that will make up the medical evidence necessary to prove your claim before the Social Security Administration. Remember, your doctor does not get to make the final call on whether you are eligible for benefits.
2. Your Doctor Should Complete a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)
To be clear, your doctor’s assessment does matter. In fact, it matters a lot. Still, without proper documentation, claimants will struggle to get benefits. In order to ensure your doctor’s recommendation against continued work actually carries the appropriate amount of weight, you should have the doctor(s) fill out a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form. As explained in the regulations from the Social Security Administration (SSA), an RFC is simply an assessment that explains a patient’s current physical/mental restrictions and limitations.
3. The SSA Will Consider ‘Light Duty’ Positions You Have Held
In assessing your Social Security disability claim, the agency will determine whether your medical condition allows you to reasonably seek employment. This can include alternative employment. If you are limited from performing certain types of work, the SSA will also consider other suitable and less strenuous options. If there is a light duty alternative position you are medically capable of performing and that you are qualified for, you may be denied SSDI benefits.
4. Be Ready to Seek Help from a Social Security Disability Lawyer
Getting benefits can be difficult. The Social Security Administration’s own data indicates that less than a third of disability claims are initially approved – with a significant percentage of claims being denied at first, but then later approved on appeal. If you have any questions about your rights or if you believe your claim was wrongly denied, it is essential you consult with an experienced Social Security disability attorney as soon as possible.
Schedule Your Free Social Security Disability Attorney Today
At Harold W. Conick & Associates Ltd., our Illinois Social Security disability lawyer assists applicants with all aspects of the claims process. Harold W. Conick has over 35 years’ experience successfully representing clients before the Social Security Administration. If your doctor told you should stop working, we can help you seek the full and fair Social Security disability benefits you deserve and need.
To set up a free, no commitment initial consultation, please contact us right away. With a law office in Lisle, we serve clients in Chicago and throughout the surrounding communities, including Cook County, Lake County, DuPage County, Will County, Kane County and McHenry County.
