The Importance of Your Medical File for Your SSDI Claim

When you have an SSDI claim, you have the option of trying to handle your claim on your own. Some people choose this option because they believe that it is expensive to hire an attorney. However, the truth of the matter is that it costs nothing out of pocket to hire an attorney to represent you, and your attorney may be able to help you recover significantly more than you could recover on your own. Sometimes, some aspects of the application may not seem difficult, but later seem complex. Your medical file is an important component for your filing — and often requires the help of an attorney. 

Developing Your Medical File: A Key Early Step in the Social Security Benefits Process

When filing for SSDI benefits, it is absolutely essential to develop a complete medical file. Unfortunately, the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) receives many fraudulent claims, which has forced the SSA to scrutinize all claims for benefits meticulously. Your medical file is your proof that you are entitled to coverage, and failing to provide all required documentation is among the most common reasons for SSDI denials.

When you choose our firm, Baltimore SSDI lawyer Emmett B. Irwin will walk you step-by-step through the process of developing your medical file. This includes helping you collect documents such as:

• Birth certificate
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status
• W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns
• Medical records and test results
• Workers’ compensation documentation (if any)
• Adult Disability Report

The Adult Disability Report is a form that the SSA requires for all SSDI applications. The form is 15 pages long and requires applicants to provide information about everything from their educational background and employment history to the cause and effects of their injuries. Completing this form correctly is extremely difficult and time-consuming, and even minor mistakes or omissions can lead to a denial of SSDI benefits.

Determining if You Need Additional Documentation for Your Medical File

In addition to helping you collect your records and complete the Adult Disability Report, attorney Emmett B. Irwin can also determine whether you need additional documentation to support your SSDI application. For example, if your medical history is incomplete or does not have the types of test results that the SSA requires, you may need to undergo an additional medical examination before filing your claim for benefits. If you need a medical exam, Mr. Irwin can refer you to a local doctor specializing in treating patients who have suffered disabling injuries and need to file for SSDI benefits.

Depending on the nature of your medical condition, Mr. Irwin may also advise obtaining a written medical opinion. This is a sworn statement from a doctor attesting to your inability to work due to your condition.

Talk to Baltimore SSDI Lawyer Emmett B. Irwin About Your Claim

Do you need to file for SSDI benefits? If so, get started with a free, no-obligation consultation at The Law Office of Emmett B. Irwin, P.C. Call 443-839-0818 or contact us online to discuss your claim with Baltimore SSDI lawyer Emmett B. Irwin today.