How to Prove Your Condition is Severe Enough for SSDI

 Posted on May 07, 2024 in Social Security Disability

Living with a severe medical condition can be too much to handle, especially when it interferes with being able to work and earn a living. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, the process of proving that your condition meets the criteria for a “severe” impairment can be challenging. A Texas lawyer can help make sure your claim is strong.

Understand the Definition of “Severe”

When it comes to SSDI, the definition of a “severe” impairment is crucial. The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets a specific threshold for what qualifies as a severe condition that significantly limits your ability to perform basic work-related activities for at least 12 consecutive months. This definition encompasses both physical and mental impairments.

The SSA understands that every individual’s experience with a medical condition is unique, and they evaluate the severity of your impairment based on the specific limitations it imposes on your ability to work. While some conditions may be more immediately apparent as severe, others may require a more in-depth examination of your medical records, test results, and daily functional limitations.

Gather Comprehensive Medical Evidence

The most important aspect of proving how secure your condition is providing comprehensive medical evidence. This includes detailed records from your treating physicians, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. These records should document your diagnoses, symptoms, test results, treatments, and the impact of your condition on your ability to work.

Objective Medical Tests

The SSA also places significant weight on objective medical tests and diagnostic procedures. Examples of such tests include MRI scans, CT scans, blood work, psychological evaluations, and functional capacity evaluations. These tests can provide quantitative data to support the severity of your condition.

Detailed Statement of Functional Limitations

You should provide a detailed statement describing your functional limitations to show how difficult your condition is to work with. This statement should address how your condition affects your ability to perform various work-related activities, such as standing, lifting, walking, sitting, standing, concentrating, and interacting with others.

Supporting Statements from Third Parties

Statements from third parties, such as family members, friends, co-workers, or former employers, can also support your claim of a severe condition. These statements can provide insight into how your condition affects your daily life and ability to function in a work environment.

Follow Treating Source Rules

In Texas, the SSA follows the “treating source rule,” which gives significant weight to the opinions of your treating physicians and other healthcare providers who have an ongoing relationship with you and are familiar with your condition. Make sure to obtain detailed statements from your treating sources regarding the severity of your condition and its impact on your ability to work.

Consider a Consultative Examination

If the evidence provided is insufficient or inconsistent, the SSA may request that you undergo a consultative examination (CE) with an independent medical professional. During this examination, the CE provider will assess your condition and provide an opinion on its severity and functional limitations.

Contact a Dallas, TX SSDI Attorney

If you are struggling with a severe medical condition that prevents you from working, you do not have to navigate the difficulties of the SSDI application process alone. A Plano, TX SSDI lawyer can help you understand the challenges you are facing and how to take the proper steps forward. Call The Law Offices of Coats & Todd at 972-671-9922 for a free consultation.