You agree that applying for Social Security Disability Insurance can be a stressful and tiring process, especially when you’re already dealing with a disabling medical condition.
At that time, you may have various questions such as:
- How can I improve my chances of getting approved for disability benefits?
- What are the signs that my application might be successful?
However, you know that in January 2025, Social Security provided $11.9 billion in benefits to approximately 8.3 million SSDI beneficiaries.
These numbers reflect the vital role SSDI plays in providing financial support to those who are unable to work due to severe medical conditions.
If you’re considering applying for SSDI lawyers, here are five signs that your case may be more likely to be approved.
1. Having clear medical Evidence
While applying of disability claim, you should have clear medical evidence that can strengthen your case. Social Security needs detailed medical documentation to confirm that your condition meets the criteria. This includes
- Medical records,
- Doctor’s reports,
- Lab results
- Other relevant information
This supports the severity and impact of your condition.
If you have medical documentation from your healthcare provider that shows you are unable to work due to your condition, you’re on the right track. The more thorough and detailed your medical evidence is, the better your chances of approval.
2. The condition should be listed in the SSA’s Blue Book
The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a comprehensive list of conditions, known as the Blue Book. This includes various physical and mental health conditions that qualify for disability benefits. Conditions such as terminal cancer, severe heart disease, and certain neurological disorders are examples of listed impairments.
If your condition is on the list and you meet the SSA’s criteria, your chances of approval are significantly higher. Keep in mind that even if your condition isn’t explicitly listed in the Blue Book, you may still qualify if your impairment is equally disabling.
3. Unable to Work for a Significant Amount of Time
To meet the SSDI requirements, you should have worked long enough to earn sufficient work credits (40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years ending with the year your disability began) and have medical conditions that have kept you from being able to work for at least 12 months.
If your disability has prevented you from working for a substantial period and you have the necessary work history, this is a clear sign that your case may be approved.
The SSA assesses the severity of your condition to determine whether you will be able to continue working in any capacity in the future.
4. Followed All Treatment Recommendations
The SSA expects applicants to follow the prescribed treatments, which include medications, therapy, or surgeries, when feasible. If you have been following your doctor’s treatment plan and are able to show that you have made every effort to improve your condition, this can positively influence your case.
It is essential to demonstrate that you have actively pursued treatment options to manage your condition, as failure to follow treatment could result in a denial. However, if your condition is so severe that treatment doesn’t improve your ability to work, that may not impact your approval negatively.
5. Have the Help of an Experienced Disability Lawyer
Having an experienced lawyer or attorney who haspecializesn in winning disability cases can increase your chances of success. A knowledgeable lawyer from the firm understands SSA’s process and can help ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and compelling.
Most SSDI attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This allows you to get professional help without worrying about upfront costs.
Additionally, a lawyer can assist in gathering the necessary medical evidence, file appeals as needed, and ensure that your case is presented effectively.
Conclusion
Now, you know that the signs that help improve your chances of SSDI approvals rely on having clear medical evidence, meeting SSA criteria, a treatment report, and having an experienced disability lawyer by your side. With these signs, your application will be stronger, giving you a better chance at securing the benefits you need and deserve.
