Medical records critical to Social Security Disability claims

Medical records are often an important component of your application for Social Security Disability insurance payments. The Social Security Administration does consider these records — or the lack thereof — in making a determination about disability payments. Working with a legal professional on your disability claim is one way to ensure you get the right records to the right people.

One thing you don’t want to do is file a claim without as many records as possible. Sometimes people jump the gun on filing and then they have to chase medical records after the fact. That can create a situation where the SSA makes a determination about coverage without all of the records, especially if it takes a while for you to get records.

An online editor for a disability claims website notes that SSA employees are looking for some specific information in your record. For example, they want to determine whether or not you are getting regular treatment for any condition you are claiming to have. They also want to see that medical care has been recent.

The SSA will also look at how medical providers classify your disability. Data published by the SSA notes that a lot of claim denials are because a person is considered by medical providers or the SSA to be able to perform other types of jobs so there is no medical reason for them to be fully unemployed. You can help reduce the risks of this occurring by providing records that discount this belief or having your physician fill out appropriate SSA forms to document your disability or impaired functions.

Source: CNBC, “Steps to successfully apply for Social Security disability,” Kelli B. Grant, accessed Sep. 16, 2016