If you’re applying for Social Security disability benefits, one thing you need to do is bring medical evidence. This can help to demonstrate what condition you have, how severe it is, how it limits your ability to work and how long it is expected to last. After all, your condition needs to be serious enough that it will keep you from working for at least 12 months for you to qualify for SSD benefits.
As the Social Security Administration notes: “Medical evidence is the cornerstone of the disability determination.” Few things are as important as the evidence that you submit with your claim, and it can make all the difference in whether or not that claim will be approved. So what type of medical evidence should you provide?
Information from your medical provider
Some people will get a personal letter from their primary physician or other medical care providers, explaining their case and why they should qualify for disability benefits. But proof that you can get from your medical provider also includes:
- Results from lab tests, like blood tests
- Results from CT scans and MRI scans
- Prescriptions for certain medications
- Medical records of your health history
- Statements from medical experts
Every situation is unique, at least when considering the exact types of lab tests and scans that may be carried out. But the key thing to remember as you go through this process is to gather all of the documentation that you can. This provides solid proof that you have the condition you claim and that it is as serious as you believe. Stating your opinion that you are disabled is one thing, but backing it up with extensive medical evidence is quite another.
Even with evidence, applying for SSD benefits can be a complex process. It may help to work with an experienced legal team at this time.