Disabled workers often face various hurdles when seeking accommodations. Navigating the process of proving one’s disability can be complex and overwhelming. At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we are here to guide you through every step, ensuring that you have the resources and knowledge necessary to successfully establish your claim. Contact our firm for a consultation where you can discuss your circumstances with an attorney.
Evidencing Your Disability through Medical Records
The first step in proving your disability is gathering comprehensive medical evidence. This includes physician notes, surgical records, hospital or emergency room records, medical tests, lab work, and records from other healthcare professionals. Be sure to keep your medical information current and submit it to the hearing office at least 75 days in advance of your hearing.
Highlighting the Severity of Your Condition
Next, demonstrate the severity of your condition and its disabling effects. Obtain an updated medical source statement or Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment from your doctor detailing your health and what activities you can and cannot do. Include specific medical evidence about your limitations. Our firm can help you gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case in your favor.
Documenting Your Inability to Work
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, your condition must prevent you from working for at least a year. Be prepared to discuss the long-term prognosis of your condition. If the Judge believes your condition may improve in the short term, you may be denied the assistance you need.
Proving You Can’t Retain Your Current Job
You will also need to establish that your condition prevents you from retaining your current job. Present your RFC assessment, detailing both your physical and psychological limitations. It’s essential that any mental health impacts, such as anxiety or depression resulting from your condition, are professionally documented.
Demonstrating Your Inability to Take Another Job
Finally, you must prove that your condition prohibits you from working in another field for which you are qualified. Using your RFC assessment, the judge will determine if your skills are transferable to another job. If your RFC limits you to “less than sedentary” work, you are highly likely to be approved for disability benefits.
Ultimately, proving disability involves a series of steps, from gathering comprehensive medical documentation to demonstrating the severity of your condition and its impact on your ability to work. A qualified disability attorney can significantly enhance your chances of successfully navigating this complex process.
The Role of a Disability Attorney
Attending a disability hearing can be a stressful process. Your approval for disability benefits will hinge on the medical evidence you provide, your organization, your ability to answer questions clearly and precisely, and your ability to prove that your condition is so disabling that you are unable to work in any field.
This is where a qualified disability attorney comes into play. At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we offer experienced guidance through the process of proving your disability. Our attorneys analyze your case and offer effective strategies to pursue the outcome you need. If you need assistance in proving your disability, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free initial consultation. We are committed to helping you secure the accommodations and benefits you deserve.
