How precisely the Social Security Administration (SSA) decides who is eligible for benefits is one of the more perplexing components of the Social Security disability benefits procedure. Many people believe that the mere fact that their doctor has determined they are incapacitated is sufficient justification for benefit approval. But it’s not quite that easy because the process is so complicated.
In fact, you might not be eligible for benefits even if your doctor certifies that you are medically handicapped. Working with a seasoned Social Security disability attorney is crucial for this reason. Keep reading to find out more about this topic and then contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 for a consultation.
The five-step approach
Who is qualified for benefits is evaluated in five steps by the Social Security Administration (SSA). This approach examines a number of things, including whether a person has a serious impairment that can be determined medically. In order to move on to the next step of the process—proving that a person is limited in his or her ability to work—this must be proven through objective medical examination and/or testing.
A doctor certifying that a patient is disabled is just one of many steps in the process of being awarded SSD benefits
Many doctors will express their belief that a patient has limited ability to work without being aware of the standards or requirements used by the SSA to make that determination. According to SSA instructions, medical professionals like doctors are not always regarded as authorities in the field of vocational analysis. How then can you utilize your doctor’s assessment of your capacity to work to your advantage when applying for Social Security benefits?
Learn how we can help
A seasoned Social Security disability lawyer can assist you in this situation. Your doctor can be guided through the procedure by a lawyer, who can also help them understand what must be included in the opinion for it to be effective in the SSA evaluation. Particularly, a functional capacity questionnaire may be more advantageous to you as the candidate than merely declaring in an opinion or letter that you are unable to work due to a disability.
This kind of questionnaire will include information on your diagnosis’s clinical symptoms, previous treatments, and a thorough evaluation of your physical capabilities. This may incorporate your capacity to move around when sitting, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, and lifting for eight hours per day, five days per week, as well as the requirement to take breaks throughout the day or leave work because of your disability.
Applications for Social Security disability benefits can be challenging, and if they are not handled correctly the first time, they are frequently rejected. This is why you should hire a knowledgeable Social Security disability attorney to represent you and assist you in putting together the strongest application and supporting materials.
Our team of qualified specialists at PLBH is skilled in assisting claimants in getting their Social Security disability benefits granted. We will work with you to ensure that you receive benefits and support you at every step of the way. For a free initial consultation, call (800) 435-7542 or email info@plblaw.com right now.