Can you avoid having a Social Security Disability claim drag on?Disability cases tend to go fairly slow. Even if a claim is approved at the initial claim, or disability application, level, a decision may take the cited average of 90-120 days, or it may in some extreme cases take up to a year (variables accounting for this include the need for multiple consultative examinations, difficulty getting medical records gathered, possibly having to defer action on a case when a claimant has had a certain type of surgery, or has suffered a heart attack or stroke). And, unfortunately, most claims are not approved at the application level, but, instead, must proceed through the reconsideration appeal phase and then proceed to a hearing where an administrative law judge will make a decision on the claim. In other words, most cases will take many months before a person can hope to receive a disability award. That said, a person filing for disability can assist their case by not doing anything that can potentially slow the process. Here is a short list of things to do that may help to avoid unnecessary time spent on a case. 1. Consider submitting medical records with your disability application versus submitting the application only. The wait for medical records (disability examiners request your records and then "shelve" your case" while they wait on the records) consumes a huge chunk of time in the processing of a Social Security Disability or SSI case. However, if you choose to do this, make sure you not only submit older records, but your most recent records as well. If you fail to submit your most recent records, the examiner may be forced to send off for your records regardless of what you've provided with your application. 2. Complete your disability application completely. In other words, supply information (regarding your condition, doctors, and places of treatment) that is a. correct and b. sufficiently detailed. Incomplete (or worse, inaccurate) information can cause a disability case to "sit longer" than one for which complete and accurate information has been provided. 3. Comply with requests from the Social Security office or the disability examiner who is handling your case. Meaning: if you get a letter asking you to respond with certain information, respond quickly. If you get a notice requesting your presence at a medical exam, make sure you keep the appointment. Failing to submit requested information or attend a scheduled medical examination can delay your case, and, in some cases, provide justification for a denial. 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: How long does a Disability Claim take in North Carolina? Will Coronary Artery Heart Disease qualify you for disability? Social Security Disability benefits for stroke Will I be approved for disability on my appeal? How long should it take to get my disability award letter, back pay, and monthly checks? How long will it take to get disability benefits after you receive an award notice? How Much Do You Get For Disability If You Are Awarded Benefits? How long is the wait for a disability judge hearing? SSI Disability Appeal works better than a new claim The list of differences between Social Security Disability and SSI Getting disability approved on a reconsideration with an attorney Should I get a lawyer if I have already filed for disability? |
