How to get disability, tip 1If you have access to regular medical care, make sure that you go. Even if your condition is such that you have reached MMI, or maximum medical improvement, you should continue to be seen by a medical treatment source at least once every 2 months. Why should you do this even when your doctor tells you that your condition will not be subject to improvement? Because disability claim approvals are based completely on a review of your medical records. And not only that, SSDI claim awards (Social Security Disability insurance) and SSI approvals can, in most cases, only be made when an applicant's medical records indicate that their condition is currently disabling according to SSA criteria. The information obtained from medical records demonstrates essentially two things. The first is that you meet the definition of disability used by SSA and are currently disabled. The second is how far back you became disabled so that A) your back pay amount can be determined and B) the commencement of your medicare eligibility can be determined (this applies to SSDI, not SSI which involves medicaid instead of medicare). For this reason, current objective medical record documentation is of the utmost importance, meaning that regular doctor/hospital/clinic visits should be maintained. 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: What is the criteria for disability benefits in North Carolina? Social security award letter and back pay amount How much can you receive in disability backpay in North Carolina? How far back can SS back pay be paid? Lupus disability back pay If I don't get disability back pay, do I pay a lawyer fee? Social Security Disability Back Payment Lump Sum |