When you file a claim for Social Security Disability benefits, the Social Security Administration requires “objective medical evidence” of your disability.
What sort of documentation will you need to support your claim for SSD benefits?
SSA requirements
The Social Security Administration requires “objective medical evidence.” In order to confirm your disability, this must come from “an accepted medical source.” The SSA can perform their own research and gather medical information on your behalf, but this approach will take much longer than if you collect the medical backup yourself.
For physical impairment
If you have a physical impairment, your doctor or naturopath should sign the Physical Residual Functional Capacity or RFC form the SSA requires. Documentation to accompany this includes:
– The doctor’s letter providing your diagnosis and explaining how your disability limits your ability to work
– Your complete medical records including treatment notes
– Records detailing any medical equipment you use
For mental impairment
For a mental impairment, your psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist or counselor should sign a Mental Residual Functional Capacity or RFC form. Additional information should include:
– Caseworker or social worker assessments about how well you function
– Files from a vocation rehabilitation program
– School records regarding your need for disability accommodations, if applicable
– Neuropsychological tests results
– Psychiatric evaluations
– IQ test results
Prepare for approval
If you submit a claim to the Social Security Administration without the required “objective medical evidence,” you increase the chance of SSD benefits denial. Prepare to provide the SSA with proof concerning the severity of your impairment and how it affects your ability to work. This will put you on the best path toward winning approval for the benefits you seek.