You’ve worked full-time for decades and there has rarely been a moment that you’ve been unemployed. Claiming any kind of government support has been the last thing on your mind. Sadly, you’ve recently come down with a debilitating condition that makes it impossible for you to work.
One option open to you is to file a claim for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. To be successful in your claim you are going to need to describe your condition as accurately as possible. Outlined below are some important factors to keep in mind when doing this.
Don’t exaggerate your condition
You know that you’re unable to work and the doctor you have seen agrees with this. However, you’re worried that this will still not be enough. Without a steady stream of income, your family could soon fall on hard times financially, and you’re willing to avoid this at all costs.
It can be tempting to exaggerate your symptoms when under such pressure, but this is certainly not advisable. Any form of dishonesty, even a minor exaggeration, could see your claim being rejected.
Don’t understate your condition
If you are unable to work then you need to make this clear. Understating your condition can be just as detrimental to your SSD claim as exaggerating your symptoms.
Your employer may be eager to keep you working, and if you’re put under enough pressure, it might be tempting to say that you’ll give it a go. By signaling that you are able to work you could further damage your health and place your SSD claim in jeopardy.
The best way to accurately describe your symptoms is to have evidence from the doctors. They will be able to provide medical records and detailed accounts of your condition. Applying for SSD benefits can be tricky, so you also want to make sure that you have legal guidance behind you.