Social Security And Mental Disorder Claims

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Many Social Security Disability applicants list mental illnesses and disorders as their primary impairment. Many of those claims are for depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Applicants also file claims for autism, learning disabilities, dementia, and schizophrenia. While the claims may be difficult to prove, you have a better chance of being approved if you understand how the Social Security Administration evaluates the claims and what evidence is required to support your claim. You may increase the chances multifold by seeking the help of a Social Security Disability attorney.

Social Security will review your medical records to see if your mental illness is listed as an impairment on their screening criterion. Neurocognitive disorders such as dementia, Alzheimer's, substance-induced cognitive disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder, anxiety, intellectual disorders, and other conditions are included.

Establishing a Social Security Claim

All admissible conditions have their set of requirements that must be met. You must have a specific illness diagnosed and show that the illness causes functional limitations that prevent you from working. Because the listing criteria are quite complex, you may need to consult with a Social Security Disability attorney and a psychiatrist to determine whether you qualify. Social Security will review your medical records and any opinions submitted by a licensed medical practitioner to determine your qualification. Without a Social Security Disability attorney's guidance, it may be extremely difficult to win a claim based on a mental condition. Thus, your lawyer will prepare a comprehensive submission, increasing the SSA's acceptance rate.

Hiring a Social Security Disability Lawyer after Beginning the Process

Some candidates realize that they need attorney help after they have already begun the application process. It is never late to hire a Social Security Disability attorney to increase your success chances. Suppose your condition is not listed, or you do not meet the criteria for one of the conditions listed. In that case, the SSA can still examine your symptoms to determine your mental residual functional capacity. If you were injured in an accident and have a sustained physical or mental disability, you may be eligible for benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The benefits you receive are determined by your employment years, socioeconomic status, and health costs. It is critical to act because there are time limits for filing a claim. Thus, promptly consult with a social security disability attorney for informed advice.

If your claim has flaws, your attorney will advise you on how to strengthen it. The Social Security Disability attorney will also investigate the SSA's mental RFC to identify potential loopholes that may be maximized for your benefit. 

To learn more, contact a Social Security Disability lawyer near you.


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