For those afflicted with a medical or mental health condition, it's possible that you are unable to work at your job. When things become impossible, you may decide to stop working and apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). However, one of the main things claimants must prove is their inability to work at their current job (or at other jobs). For help in understanding what that means, read below. 

You Must Have Evidence

When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must provide evidence that you are unable to work due to a medical condition or disability that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death. To prove that you cannot work, you will need to provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) with medical evidence and other documentation. 

What to Do

You can take steps to ensure that your application is accepted and your SSDI benefits approved. The below step may help you avoid being denied your benefits. Here are some steps you can take:

Obtain medical evidence 

You will need to provide medical evidence to support your claim that you cannot work. This can include doctor's reports, hospital records, test results, and other medical documentation that show the nature and extent of your condition.

Keep track of your symptoms

Keep a detailed record of your symptoms and how they affect your ability to work. This can include pain, fatigue, weakness, or any other symptoms that make it difficult to perform your job duties.

Get statements from your healthcare providers

Ask your healthcare providers to provide statements that describe your condition and how it affects your ability to work. These statements can be used as evidence to support your claim.

Provide information about your work history

The SSA will need information about your work history, including the type of work you have done and the skills you have acquired. This information will be used to determine whether there are any jobs that you may be able to perform despite your disability.

Work with an experienced SSDI attorney

Working with an attorney who specializes in SSDI cases can help ensure that your application is complete and includes all the necessary evidence to support your claim.

The SSDI application process can be complex and lengthy, and it may take several months to receive a decision on your claim. Be patient and persistent in providing the necessary evidence and following up with the SSA. Speak to a social security disability attorney for more information.