When you make a claim for Social Security disability benefits, you will be expected to provide supporting evidence and documentation of your condition. In some cases, you may have to explain your case to an adjudicator as to why you are entitled to benefits. A New York Social Security disability attorney can tell you that in these cases, it can be invaluable for you to document your symptoms so that you can provide an accurate and compelling claim.
How to Document Your Symptoms
The process to receive Social Security disability benefits can be very long. It can take months and sometimes even years to go from the start of the process to the end. As a result, it can be hard to remember when you saw a doctor and what your doctor said if that event occurred a year ago. To help prevent this, a New York Social Security disability lawyer can provide some steps for documenting your condition:
- Keep a Journal. You should keep a journal to record not only your doctor visits and treatments, but also how you feel each day. A journal can help you remember the details of the pain you feel as well as the successes or failures of any therapy. In addition, you will want to note the severity and spell out the exact type of pain you feel. The more extensive your notes, the compelling case you may make;
- Ask for Documentation. When you visit the doctor, you should make sure to ask for copies of diagnosis, medication, treatment and other things. An official document from your physician carries a lot of weight at a hearing; and
- Maintain Thoroughness. At every stage of the disability benefits process, you will want to maintain thorough and complete records. This is true for your journal and medical documentation.
Contact a New York Social Security Disability Attorney
If you have any questions about a disability or Social Security disability claim, you will want to work with an experienced New York Social Security disability lawyer. Discuss your case with an attorney at Hermann Law Group, PLLC by calling 1-877-773-3030.
