Social Security Disability SSI Application and Hearing Tips: Describing your workIf you ask a social security claims rep (claims reps are the individuals who take your application for either Social Security Disability or SSI) which part of the application interview takes the longest amount of time to complete, they'll likely tell you it has to do with getting a breakdown of the physical activities attached to a past job. In other words, how much time was spent sitting, standing, etc. This part of the interview may be akin to pulling teeth simply because most claimants have never taken the time to think about the time-portions of their work day that were consumed by certain physical activities. Frankly, other than for the purposes of completing a disability application or answering questions at a hearing, why would anyone think about this? But this type of information is relevant to a disability claim and important. Why? Because whether or not you are approved for disability benefits will likely depend not only on your physical and mental limitations, but also on the requirements of your previous jobs. Remember: Eligibility for Social Security Disability or SSI disability has very little to do with the names of your conditions, but, rather with--- 1. What you are still capable of doing even with your condition (your residual functional capacity). 2. Whether or not your limitations will allow you to return to your past work (this is why it's important to know what you actually did on your past jobs). 3. Whether or not your limitations will allow you to perform a suitable type of other work. According to one claims rep I know, disability claimants tend to minimize the demands of their previous jobs. But you should never do this, not when you file for disability benefits and certainly not when you appear at a disability hearing. When it comes to describing your pain, symptoms, physical limitations, and mental limitations, NEITHER MINIMIZE NOR EXAGGERATE, but, rather, give honest and well-considered answers. 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: Get prepared before you have your disability application interview What Happens During A Social Security Disability or SSI Interview? Filing an Application for Disability Benefits What if You Miss Your Social Security Disability Application Appointment? |
