When members of the workforce develop a disability that prevents them from working for at least twelve months, they may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). If an applicant has enough of a work history and a qualifying disability or blindness that keeps them from working, they can file an SSDI claim using an online portal or by setting up an appointment with an SSA representative. It’s important to recognize that the majority of first-time SSDI applications are denied, so learning that your claim has been denied, while frustrating, is not uncommon. Moreover, an initial denial does not automatically mean that the matter is over. You still have options for appealing the denial and continuing to seek the SSDI benefits that you need.
In order to maximize your chances of a successful SSDI claim, it’s essential that you gather strong medical documentation that clearly demonstrates the nature, extent, and prognosis of the disability. One of the most common reasons that SSA denies SSDI applications is insufficient or inconsistent medical evidence. While you do not need to hire an attorney to file an SSDI claim, partnering with a highly qualified and caring Michigan disability attorney is the best way to improve your chances of success. Let’s take a look at the SSDI medical evidence requirements and some strategies you and your SSDI lawyer can use to compile and submit a strong SSDI application in Michigan.
The Role of Medical Evidence in SSDI Evaluations
The SSA reviews SSDI applications to determine whether the applicant qualifies for benefits because of a disability that prevents them from working for at least one year or longer. According to the SSA, “To meet our definition of a disability, you must not be able to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) because of a medically determinable physical or mental disability(ies) that is either: Expected to result in death; or Has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months.” In other words, applicants must be able to provide proof of their functional limitations. Compiling and submitting clear medical evidence that supports both the diagnosis and the ways in which the condition limits the applicant’s work ability is the cornerstone of a strong and successful SSDI claim in Michigan.
What Medical Records Are Needed For SSDI Applications in Michigan?
As you focus on preparing your SSDI claim, it’s helpful to identify the types of medical evidence that you can include to strengthen and support your application. The last thing you want is for your SSDI application to be denied due to insufficient or incomplete information, so taking some time to gather and submit comprehensive medical evidence is the best way to improve your chances of a successful claim. Here are just a few of the most useful types of medical documentation for SSDI claims in Michigan.
Doctor’s Diagnosis and Treatment Notes
The licensed medical professional who formally diagnoses your disability will document this visit and provide written treatment plans and other notes pertaining to the nature, severity, and prognosis of the condition. These treatment plans and doctors’ notes are the foundation of a successful SSDI claim, as they clearly define the disability and describe how the condition affects the patient’s ability to work.
Hospital Records and Diagnostic Imaging
If you visited the hospital for treatment or underwent any diagnostic imaging or testing, you should include records and results from these visits with your SSDI application. Objective test results, such as MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, and lab results, help to substantiate the disability and support your claim for SSDI benefits.
Mental or Physical Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessments
When you seek a diagnosis and treatment for a disability, the medical professional can perform a functional capacity (RFC) assessment to determine what tasks you can still perform despite your impairment. For instance, the RFC results can help to establish your sitting or standing limitations, lifting restrictions, or cognitive limitations. These results can serve as further Social Security disability proof when you apply for SSDI benefits.
How to Strengthen Your Medical File When Applying For SSDI
A successful SSDI claim begins long before you start to fill out the application. Below are some tips to help you maximize your chances of securing the benefits you need when applying for SSDI in Michigan:
- See your doctor regularly and attend all follow-up appointments.
- Follow all the prescribed treatments your medical provider recommends for you.
- Keep all medical records associated with your disability well-organized and consistent.
- Obtain a written statement from your treating doctor that describes your limitations.
What the SSA Looks For When Evaluating an SSDI Claim
The SSA only approves SSDI applications that are accurate and complete. Even seemingly minor oversights or mistakes can lead to a denial. Here are some of the elements that the SSA looks for when evaluating an SSDI application, so that you can be sure to include and address them before you submit your claim.
Objective and Consistent Diagnoses
The SSA wants to see that a licensed medical doctor or other acceptable medical source has formally diagnosed the disability. If you visited more than one healthcare professional, the SSA needs to see consistent reports among the records and notes. The objective medical findings must align with your reported symptoms in order for the SSA to view your application as legitimate.
Long-Term Treatment History
Successful SSDI claims include medical records that indicate a pattern of ongoing care for the disability. In other words, applicants need to show that they take their health seriously and follow through with prescribed treatments.
What If You Don’t Have Enough Medical Evidence?
If an SSDI application includes insufficient medical evidence, the SSA may schedule a consultative exam (CE) to better understand the applicant’s disability. However, relying solely on consultative exams is more risky than going through the steps of visiting licensed medical professionals for comprehensive and objective evaluations. To learn more about the SSDI application process, reach out to a trusted and knowledgeable Michigan attorney today.
FAQs About the SSDI Application Process in Michigan
What Kind of Medical Records Do I Need For SSDI?
Office visit notes, diagnostic test results, specialist reports, and treatment history are essential.
Will the SSA Contact My Doctor For Me?
The SSA may request records, but it may be necessary to submit a complete medical file if SSA is unable to obtain the records for you.
Is a Doctor’s Letter Enough to Win SSDI?
A well-supported letter helps, but it must be backed by clinical evidence and documentation that supports and is consistent with the opinion.
What if I Can’t Afford Regular Doctor Visits?
Seek out low-cost clinics or community health services to maintain treatment records, or perhaps you are eligible for Medicaid.
Learn More About SSDI Applications Today
Navigating the SSDI application process can be overwhelming and confusing. That’s why the highly experienced and dedicated legal team at Warren & Schairbaum, PLLC, is committed to serving every client with the attention, support, and care they need during this challenging time. If you have questions about applying for SSDI benefits in Michigan, we invite you to contact our Ann Arbor office today by calling (734) 769-9300 to get started with a knowledgeable and friendly attorney.
