Medical Records

I have had a few people hire me as their lawyer right before their hearing. One big mistake they have made is not updating their medical records.

Social Security gets the medical records up until the time you request a hearing. After the hearing request you must get your records for any medical treatment you have. The problem is that it is taking up to two years from Request for Hearing until the hearing date is set. If you do not have your records updated you will most likely lose your case.

Keep track of your doctors and when you go for treatment. Order your records and send them into the hearing office. If you represent yourself you will have to pay for your own records. Some lawyers will also make you pay for your own records.

I pay for my clients records myself and ask for reimbursement at the end of the case if we win. Any questions about medical records and what you need to do please call Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371. Serving Bloomington, Peoria, Springfield, Decatur and Champaign, Illinois. 

 

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So you want to represent yourself in your Social Security disability case?

Okay assuming you go against my advice to hire an experienced lawyer for no up front fees, I am going to give you some tips.

Make sure you have all your updated medical records in your file. Medical is king in Social Security disability. Weak medical means you lose.

Will your doctor write a letter for you explaining how your medical condition limits your ability to function on a daily basis? If so send it in to Social Security.

Have one or two friends or family members write a letter describing your problems and how they limit you. Take them to the hearing with you.

Think about the best words that will paint a picture of your pain, what happens when you stand, sit, walk and lift, and why you cannot work 8 hours a day and 5 days a week. 

This will get you part of the way there. In another post I will discuss your next hurdle: the vocational expert.