When applying for acceptance into the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits program, your word may only go so far in the eyes of the Social Security Administration (SSA). This is to say that your medical records are the foundation for your case to collect these monthly benefits payments. Unfortunately, oftentimes, deserving applicants are denied benefits simply because their medical documentation is missing or otherwise unclear. In an effort to prevent this from becoming your undesirable fate, please continue reading to learn the role medical records play in an SSDI benefits application and how one of the experienced attorneys in SSDI eligibility in New Jersey, at The Law Offices of Sheryl Gandel Mazur, can help you make your evidence clear for the SSA.
Why are medical records so important in an SSDI benefits application?
To reiterate, the quantity and quality of medical records you supply alongside your SSDI benefits application heavily influence whether the SSA believes you are eligible for this program. This is because, for one, this documentation may confirm the nature of your medical condition. This is important because only certain types of physical, mental, and emotional disability make it on the SSA’s set list.
Secondly, your medical records may shed light on the severity of your medical condition. This is relevant because SSDI benefits are specifically meant for individuals who can no longer perform work-related tasks that will allow them to achieve substantial gainful activity (SGA). Lastly, this evidence may establish how long your medical condition has lasted thus far, or how long it is anticipated to last. Ultimately, a medical professional must verify that you have or will suffer from yours for at least 12 months.
How does the SSA address missing or unclear medical records?
It is possible that you meet all the enforced eligibility criteria for SSDI benefits, but do not have the medical records to show for it. This may understandably happen if you change residences and lose your medical records in the chaos of the move. Or, your home may sadly experience a fire or other disastrous weather-related event, and you lose many of your personal belongings. Or, the medical facilities that stored your documents have closed or changed storage systems and no longer have access to your files.
Not to worry, though, if the SSA finds that your medical evidence is missing or unclear, it may schedule a Consultative Examination (CE) for you. This is a medical evaluation performed by an SSA-approved doctor, who does not necessarily provide you with treatment, but rather assesses your functional limitations and provides the SSA with an update on your medical condition. It is in your best interest not to miss this scheduled appointment, as this may get your application denied altogether.
When it comes to your SSDI benefits application, you should not settle for anything less than spectacular legal guidance. So please hire us for your application processing. One of the skilled attorneys in SSDI eligibility in New Jersey, at The Law Offices of Sheryl Gandel Mazur, looks forward to working with you.
