If you are unable to work because of a spinal disorder, and you filed a disability claim that was denied, you can file an appeal. An appeal, also called a request for reconsideration, allows you to provide additional details for the disability examiner to take into consideration.
Here are some tips for winning your appeal for disability benefits with a spinal disorder. With the right preparation and supporting information, you can improve your chances of being awarded monthly disability benefits to help you financially because of your inability to work and earn a living.
Tips to Win Your Disability Appeal
If your initial disability claim for a spinal disorder has been denied, there are several things that you can do to improve the odds of having your claim approved when it is reviewed again.
1. Review your denial notice because it will tell you what is needed to get your claim approved. You will need to provide detailed medical records that explain the severity of your condition and confirm your diagnosis. This will include detailed physician notes including exam records.
2. You will need to provide test results, such as copies of imaging like MRIs and CT scans or x-rays. These will show the origin of your spinal condition and its severity. Any neurological testing, treatment records, surgical notes if applicable, and so forth can help prove the severity of your condition.
3. Provide a detailed list of your medical providers along with their contact details. By having access to more medical records to review, your odds of a successful claim will improve greatly.
4. You could also benefit from a residual functional capacity (RFC) form. This form details what you can and cannot do, so the disability examiner will know what you can and cannot do. For example, it may indicate that you must use a device to walk, you cannot stand more than two hours, and because of the spinal condition and intensity of the pain, your arms experience tremors that affect your ability to use your hands.
5. Recruit a lawyer to represent you throughout the appeals process. Claimants represented by a lawyer may be more likely to be approved for disability benefits. A lawyer will know what details are needed to prove your claim and to get you approved for disability benefits.
Get a Free Case Evaluation
If you are unable to work because of spinal disorder and your disability claim was denied during the initial review, you should enlist the help of a disability attorney. A disability lawyer may be able to help you get your claim approved.
Claimants who have legal representation may be more likely to be awarded benefits. Disability lawyers work on a contingency basis, so your attorney will not require payment in advance and will not receive compensation until your claim has been approved.
Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to share claim details with a disability lawyer and to determine the best way to proceed with your claim.
Additional Resources
- Spinal Disabilities List
- How Severe Does My Spinal Condition Have To Be To Get Disability Benefits?
- How Much Does Disability Pay with a Spinal Disorder?
- Spine Disorders and Social Security Disability
- What Spinal Conditions Qualify for Disability?
- How Severe Does My Ankylosing Spondylitis Have To Be To Get Disability Benefits?
