You applied for Social Security Disability knowing that you would not be able to return to work any time soon. You’ve been out of work due to a back injury, and there are days when you can’t even get up off your sofa. It is hard to live with, but knowing that you could receive a disability check gave you some hope.
When you received a denial, you were hurt. You supplied all the information you could, but the Social Security Administration (SSA) says that there’s not enough evidence of your disability in your file.
What can you do if you don’t have more medical documents for your application?
First, remember that you will have the right to appeal the denial. Many people are denied when they first apply for Social Security Disability (SSDI) and go on to win their claim on appeal. Here are three other things you can do if the Social Security Administration wants more evidence of your medical condition:
- Reach out to your medical provider about missing records. If not all of your doctors responded to SSA’s requests for information, that can leave gaps in the record. Contact your provider to get updated tests or copies of paperwork that may have been missed.
- Talk to your main doctor about a letter. They may be able to write to the Social Security Administration on your behalf to define your residual functional capacity and limitations. They may also be able to refer you for other evaluations that will bolster your claim.
- Ask your friends, relatives and former bosses for assistance. It’s okay to submit supporting evidence from others that helps clarify when you became unable to work and exactly why you can no longer do so.
Your attorney will talk to you about other options for proving your disability is severe and hindering your life. They’re familiar with the SSDI process and will be there to support you.