An interview is a crucial step in your disability benefits application. This interview is typically conducted by a Social Security Administration (SSA) representative to gather information about your medical condition, work history, and other relevant details.
The Social Security Disability interview should be approached carefully, with the guidance of an experienced disability lawyer to present the strongest case to the SSA. Here are some general guidelines on what you should and shouldn’t do during a disability interview for your best chance at approval.
What You Should Do:
- Prepare for the interview. Review your medical records and be familiar with the details of your condition. Make a list of your medical providers, medications, and treatments.
- Be honest. Provide accurate and truthful information about your medical condition, symptoms, and limitations. Clearly communicate the severity of your disability and how it affects your ability to work.
- Explain your daily activities. Describe in detail how your disability impacts your everyday life and activities. Provide examples of specific tasks you struggle with due to your condition.
- Emphasize work limitations. Clearly articulate how your medical condition limits your ability to perform work-related tasks. Highlight any physical or mental limitations that affect your ability to sustain employment.
- Provide work history. Detail your work history, including past jobs, responsibilities, and required skills. Explain how your disability has affected your ability to perform your job duties.
- Ask questions. Ask for clarification if you need help understanding a question. Seek guidance on any additional information or documentation that may be required.
What You Shouldn’t Do
- Be unprepared. Take the interview seriously and be prepared with the necessary documentation and information. Be prepared and appear more organized during the interview.
- Exaggerate or downplay. While it’s essential to be honest, avoid exaggerating the severity of your condition. Don’t downplay your limitations; accurately convey how your disability affects your daily life.
- Withhold information. Provide all necessary information, even if it seems minor. Every detail can contribute to the overall understanding of your case. Don’t withhold information that may be relevant to your disability claim.
- Provide inconsistent information. Ensure that your information is consistent with your medical records and other documentation. Avoid providing conflicting information that may raise doubts about the validity of your claim.
- Discuss legal or technical details. Disability law can be complex, and discussing legal or technical details may be best left to your legal representative. Stick to explaining how your disability affects your ability to work and perform daily activities.
- Assume the interviewer knows everything. Don’t assume that the interviewer is already aware of your medical history or the details of your condition. Clearly and thoroughly communicate the relevant information.
Remember, if you’re uncertain about any aspect of the disability interview, it is essential that you seek guidance from a legal professional or disability advocate. They can provide valuable assistance in navigating the process and protecting your rights.
Michigan Social Security Disability Attorneys Who Advocate for You
Navigating the Social Security disability claims process is complex and could be stressful, mainly as you deal with a recent disability. Fortunately, you don’t need to go through it alone. Let the compassionate disability attorneys at the Disability Attorneys of Michigan build your most promising case for the SSA and help ensure that you receive the benefits you may be entitled to by law. Speak with us for free today.
Contact us today by submitting a contact form or calling our office at 800-949-2900 for a free case evaluation.
