NEW SSDI APPLICATIONS: WHY SO MANY FORMS?

You are filing a new disability application with Social Security and you get buried in forms.  Some of them have 15 pages or more.  You're thinking, Why so many forms?

Each form has a purpose.  If you skip a form or go skimpy (fill it out incorrectly or incompletely), it will hurt you.

DISABILITY REPORT (ADULT) - This form provides personal information about the applicant and also lists the doctors, clinics, hospitals and other providers who have medical records that need to be ordered by Social Security.  It's a must. 

WORK HISTORY REPORT - This form details all of the claimant's past jobs for 15 years.  Social Security must decide whether the claimant is able to return to any of these jobs.  To make this decision, they must understand the kind of work, the exertion level, and skills required.  So, tell them how much sitting/standing/walking, bending, lifting, etc. you did on each job.  Failing to carefully complete this form is like saying, "OK, Go ahead and deny my claim today."

FUNCTION REPORT - This 14 page form is to give Social Security an idea of how active you are--what you can do and what you need help with.  They will use this to see how independent you are in functioning and translate this into whether you can perform work-like activity.  For example, if you can prepare meals, clean your own house, mow your grass and shop on an unlimited basis, they will probably determine that some jobs exists in the US economy that you can do--hence, a denial.

I realize that these exhausting forms are difficult for an individual who is disabled.  It may be best to have a family member, a spouse or even a friend sit down with you and help with the forms.  The claimant needs to provide the information; however, someone else may help clarify the meaning of questions or even discuss how to best answer the questions in a truthful and complete manner.

If The Forsythe Firm files your application, we will help prepare all of the form for you.  There is never an additional or upfront cost for this service.  But the worst thing you can do is skimp on the information or fail to return completed forms.
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The Forsythe Firm
Social Security Disability Counselors
7027 Old Madison Pike, Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806
CALL US:  (256) 799-0297    Free Consultations

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