Keep a copy of every piece of information you submit to the Social Security Administration during this process as well as a copy of every form you fill-out, sign, and submit. Many people who file for Social Security Benefits are frustrated by misplaced documents and records. If you mail off a large packet of paperwork, purchase a delivery confirmation tag to have proof that the Administration received your paperwork. Also make a follow up call to the Administration to confirm receipt of your paperwork.
Don’t call the Social Security Administration’s 800 number for information about your case. This call center most likely won’t have access to up-to-date information about your case. Instead call you local branch for information related to your claim.
When you first get injured have regular doctor’s visits to document your progress or lack there of. This will help establish a history of disability that the Social Security Administration will be able to use when determining your eligibility.
Keep a log of incidents, physical pain experienced, days of work missed, doctor visits, therapy sessions, when you stopped working, and daily activity from the day you are first injured. You can use this to help support your case by showing how your disability has affected your ability to do work related activities as well as how it has affected your general mobility and ability to function.
Follow your doctors’ orders and medical advice. This means take your medications, follow mobility restrictions, and keep doctors appointments. The Social Security Administration will see that even when you follow prescribed treatments your impairment is still severe enough to limit your abilities. This will be good for your case. On the other hand, if you do not follow your doctor’s advise, the SSA may see your impairment is because of your lack of compliance with medical advise and not because you are disabled. This would be bad for your case.
Even when you are frustrated with the process remain friendly and polite with your caseworker. Your patients and friendliness may help your file be completed sooner.
To help speed up the processing of your claim have your physician complete an RCF form for you. An RCF form is an evaluation of your residual functional capacity, and it is required before a final decision can be made in regards to your case.
Also have your doctor fill out a statement that details why you are disabled and why this disability prevents you from working.