The Dos and Don’ts of Social Security

While it is true that most, or around 60 per cent, of the initial claims for Social Security are rejected, it does not mean that the claimant should already anticipate his failure or be discouraged. But it’s not because it was meant to fail, the claimant just did not do anything to prevent it and by doing so, he unknowingly sabotaged his own claim.

If you want your Social Security claim to be included in the approved 40 per cent bracket, learn to be positive. Avoid these actions or assumptions during application and review which may result to a denied Social Security benefits.

• Don’t apply or rush into an interview without even the slightest idea about Social Security claims.

• Don’t assume that the Social Security Administration will obtain all of your medical records and information. In preparing the required documents, getting the help of a lawyer will come in handy.

• Don’t turn down testing or treatment from a specialist, especially if the evaluators require you to take consultative examination for additional medical information. Refusal may cost your claim.

• Don’t act or look angry during the interview.

• Don’t give vague or unclear answers. Failure to be specific and answering “I don’t know” may result to the rejection of your claim because the detail asked may be important. Avoid being uncooperative or argumentative too.

• Don’t exaggerate your disability. The judge or examiner may think that your answers are not credible. Try to be specific; for example, tell the judge when the disability was at its worst and how long it lasted, or if the pain is recurring.
If there are things to be avoided, of course there are also things that could help you avoid rejection.

• Do provide a comprehensive medical and treatment information. Keep all the records of hospital and doctor visits if you received care.

• Do inform your doctor about the Social Security application, and ask for their support on the claim.

• Do agree to testing and visits, like the CE, if recommended.

• Do include all of your medical problems and the symptoms experienced on your application as they will strengthen the claim.

• Do prepare for the interview.

• Do come in to the interview pleasant.

• Do ask for an explanation if there was something that you did not understand.

• Do answer the question more specifically, as best as you can.

• Do get the help of an attorney as soon as possible