Understand the SSA's Definition of Disability

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a strict definition of disability. To qualify for benefits, your condition must:

• Be medically determinable and severe enough to prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• Last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death.
• Prevent you from performing your past work or any other work based on your age, education, and skills.

Understanding this framework helps you submit the right kind of evidence and prepare your claim more effectively.

Seek Consistent Medical Treatment

One of the most important factors in your claim is medical documentation. To strengthen your case:

• See your doctor regularly: Ongoing treatment creates a clear medical history and shows that your condition is serious and persistent.
• Follow prescribed treatments: Failing to follow medical advice can hurt your credibility with the SSA.
• Work with specialists: If your condition involves specialized care (neurologist, orthopedist, psychiatrist, etc.), include those records to show the extent of your treatment.

Get a Strong Statement from Your Doctor

Ask your treating physician to provide a detailed written statement about your condition and how it limits your ability to work. This is known as a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment and it can:

• Describe specific physical or mental limitations.
• Support how your symptoms affect your ability to function day-to-day.
• Help the SSA understand how your condition aligns with their criteria.

A thorough doctor’s opinion carries significant weight during the review process.

Keep Detailed Personal Records

You should maintain your own log of:

• Symptoms and flare-ups (e.g., pain, fatigue, mental health episodes)
• How your condition affects daily activities
• Missed work or difficulties performing tasks
• Appointments and treatments

These personal records can help you when filling out SSA forms and during hearings if your claim is denied.

Complete the Application Accurately and Thoroughly

Many claims are denied due to incomplete or inconsistent applications. To improve your chances:

• Double-check your answers for accuracy.
• Provide detailed descriptions of your work history, education, and medical conditions.
• List all doctors, hospitals, and clinics you’ve visited for treatment.
• Don’t leave any blanks—if something doesn’t apply, write “N/A.”

Honesty and detail are key.

Don’t Underestimate Mental Health Conditions

If you suffer from depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health issues, include them in your application—even if they aren’t your primary disability. Mental health conditions can compound your physical impairments and impact your ability to work.

Make sure to:

• Include mental health treatment records
• List mental health providers and any medications prescribed
• Explain how these issues affect your ability to concentrate, follow instructions, or maintain a schedule

Respond Promptly to SSA Requests

If the SSA asks for additional documentation or schedules you for a Consultative Exam (CE):

• Respond quickly to avoid delays or denial.
• Attend all scheduled appointments—missing a CE can result in denial.
• Keep your contact info updated so you don’t miss any communication.

Timely communication is crucial.

Prepare for a Denial and Know the Appeals Process

It’s common for legitimate claims to be denied at first. If that happens:

• Don’t panic or give up—you have the right to appeal.
• Request reconsideration within 60 days.
• If denied again, request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
• Use this time to gather new evidence or strengthen your documentation.

Persistence often pays off in disability claims.