Getting social security disability coverage is no easy task. Not only must you meet work history standards, but you also have to demonstrate your medical condition. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires extensive medical records that prove your condition keeps you from working and earning a living.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) covers you in the event you are sick or injured and unable to work for a year or longer. When you file for SSDI, doctors assess your documents to determine if your condition matches a disability listed in the SSA Blue Book.
The main thing to remember with your SSDI application is that you can never provide too much evidence to back your claim. When it comes to social security, more evidence is always better.
What Type of Medical Records are Needed for a Disability Claim?
When filing for disability, you must include documentation from a licensed medical professional. To have the best odds for success, you should always work with “treating sources” who have the most in-depth knowledge of your medical history.
According to the Disability Benefits Help website, “there are different parts to the social security disability benefit application process and each requires different forms to be completed. Some forms you will need help from your doctor to complete.”
Medical Release Form SSA-827
While Form SSA-827 isn’t a requirement for filing a claim, it is a very good idea to use this document. By filing this SSA-827, you give permission for the SSA to “speak with your physician” directly and “access important medical documents.” Not only does Form SSA-827 streamline filing, but it also builds trust with the SSA by being transparent with your condition.
Medical Tests
Test results are by far the most important type of medical records for SSDI applications. The Disability Help website states, “the results of your diagnostic tests … such as EKGs, x-rays, and CT scans can prove that you suffer from illness or injury-related symptoms.” In turn, SSA doctors compare your medical records with qualifying conditions in the Blue Book.
Letter of Recommendation
A great way to have the SSA view your SSDI application in a positive light is to include a letter of recommendation from your doctor. In the letter, your doctor should describe the parameters of your ailment and exactly how long it will be before you can return to work.
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessment
A Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment must be completed if you were denied in your first SSDI filing. Please note, the SSA has different RFC assessments for physical and mental conditions. Importantly, with an RFC assessment, a doctor decides “the maximum you can do in spite of your physical/psychological impairment(s).”
How Far Back Does Social Security Look at Medical Records?
While there is no set amount of time that the SSA will look back at medical records, it’s safe to assume that the most up-to-date information is best.
The amount of time that the SSA will look back at your records largely depends on the medical condition in question. For example, a sickness like Parkinson’s Disease that starts slowly and builds gradually over time will likely require medical documentation of several years. Conversely, a new injury like a spinal damage will only have medical records from recent months.
Please note, if you are no longer receiving medical treatment for your condition, there is a good chance that your SSDI claim will be denied.
How Long Does It Take the SSA to Process Medical Records?
Due to the sheer number of claims filed with the SSA, it can be difficult to know exactly how much time is spent on medical records versus other criteria like work history. Moreover, as many SSDI claims include additional steps with appeals and court hearings, the lengths of cases can vary drastically.
Stipulations aside, it generally takes the SSA about 4 months to reach a decision on an SSDI application. If your application is denied and you choose to appeal, the total process can take anywhere from 8 months up to 2 years.
What is a Medical Review by the SSA for Disability?
Even if you have been approved for social security, the SSA might review your case in the future to ensure that your medical condition hasn’t changed. With medical reviews, the SSA “determines if an individual is [still] meeting the medical requirements to [continue to] collect disability.” If the SSA reviews your case and finds that you are well enough to work, they might revoke your benefits.
Work with the House of Justice on Social Security Claims
The Spanish-speaking attorneys at the House of Justice will help you get the SSDI benefits you deserve. We have the knowledge and experience to help you gather the correct medical records for your condition.
Even if you have previously been denied SSDI, our attorneys may be able to assist you in qualifying. Contact Us today or call 1-800-840-8080 to set up a consultation.
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