Should I List My Past Depression Medications on My Social Security Disability or SSI Application?If we answer this question in a technical manner, we can say "no, your past medications do not matter". In fact, when you file your claim you will only be asked to provide a list of your current medications. Having said that, though, disability examiners like to have the full picture of an applicant's limitations before making a decision on a claim. If the examiner finds a reference to a particular medication in your medical records and you have not explained or disclosed it, he may feel he needs more information before approving or denying your claim. Even if you are not currently taking the medications, or have stopped taking them for a long period of time but have begun taking them again, they could be relevant to your disability case. For instance, if you are filing for a claim on the basis of an affective disorder illness such as depression, noting in your medical history that you have taken medication in the past for your condition can help the examiner establish when your symptoms first began, or the onset date. Typically, the earlier the onset date, the more back pay you may be entitled to receive if you are approved for benefits. In addition, you can file a claim based on not just one, but a combination of medical conditions. If you are no longer able to perform your current job due to back pain, for instance, it is less likely that a disability examiner will determine you are able to perform other, less physical work if you are also suffering from crippling depression. When it comes to filing for disability, you should include any information that can help an examiner understand the full impact of your medical condition on your ability to work. Disability applications are evaluated based on both the severity of your illness and your ability to perform any work that pays a monthly wage equal to or greater than the current SGA, or substantial gainful activity amount. Related: What can I expect from a Social Security Mental Examination or Evaluation? About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Can your doctor get you approved for disability? When does Social Security send you to an xray? Does my doctor decide if I am disabled? Medical Documentation when you apply for disability with depression Can I Qualify For Disability and Receive Benefits based on Depression? Should I List My Past Depression Medications on My Social Security Disability or SSI Application? How do you apply for disability if you have depression? Is it hard to qualify for Social Security benefits if you have depression? Can disability be awarded for depression for a time until I am fully recovered? Depression, Social Security Disability, and Applying for Benefits Dysthymia and Filing for Disability Major Depressive Disorder (Depression) and Filing for Disability Qualifying for Disability in South Carolina If you apply for disability in South Carolina Disability Lawyer in South Carolina |
