Most Social Security Disability claims don’t fail because the applicant doesn’t qualify. They fail because the case wasn’t built correctly. Missing records, late responses, and avoidable gaps in treatment history are responsible for far more denials than medical ineligibility ever will be.
The good news? Most of those problems are preventable.
Stanley Law Offices attorney for NY social security cases, Shannon Doan, has helped SSDI clients navigate this process across all 50 states. Here are her 10 most important tips – whether you’re filing for the first time or fighting back after a denial.
Watch the FREE WEBINAR before you read or alongside it.
In this webinar, you’ll learn:
- What Social Security is really looking for
- Why medical records matter so much
- How to document your limitations clearly
- Common mistakes that lead to denials
- How to strengthen your claim from the start
Here’s a breakdown of each tip given by attorney Shannon Doan so you can reference them anytime.
1. Create a “My Social Security Account (My SSA)”. Set one up at ssa.gov before you do anything else. It gives you real-time access to your claim status, work credits, and estimated benefit amounts – information your representative may not always be able to pull up directly.
2. Access Your Medical Records Online. Most providers offer patient portals like MyChart. Use them. Review your records regularly and flag any inaccuracies or missing diagnoses early. What’s documented in those records is what Social Security will use to evaluate your condition.
3. Monitor All Communications. Social Security reaches out by mail, email, and phone. Miss one notice and your case can stall – or get denied on a technicality. Check everything consistently and respond faster than you think you need to.
4. Disable Your Spam Filter for 1-800 Calls. Social Security frequently calls from 1-800 numbers that spam filters block automatically. Adjust your settings now. A missed call can delay your entire case.
5. Keep Your Attorney Updated. New diagnosis. Hospital visit. Medication change. New specialist. Any of these should go straight to your representative. Social Security builds its picture of your disability over time – your attorney needs the full, current picture to present your case properly.
6. Respond Quickly and Completely. When Social Security requests something, provide it fast and in full. Partial responses slow down reviews and send the wrong signal about how well-supported your claim is.
7. Be Truthful — No Exceptions. There are no scripts or magic phrases that improve your chances. Reviewers have heard them all. The most effective thing you can do is describe your situation honestly and specifically – how your condition actually affects your day-to-day life and your ability to work.
8. Don’t Exaggerate Your Limitations. Overstating what you can’t do tends to backfire. Reviewers are trained to spot inconsistencies, and extreme claims can undermine an otherwise strong case. Be realistic. Be specific. Let the medical evidence carry the weight.
9. Keep Up With Treatment. Gaps in treatment history are one of the most common reasons SSDI cases hit problems. Consistent care demonstrates that your condition is serious and actively managed. If you’ve had treatment gaps, be ready to explain why.
10. Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations. If your physician has referred you to a specialist, prescribed therapy, or adjusted your medications – follow through. Non-compliance signals to Social Security that your condition may not be as limiting as claimed. If cost is a barrier, low-cost options often exist, and your social security lawyers in New York can help you find them.
The Bottom Line
A strong SSDI case is built on consistent, honest, well-documented evidence – not on timing or luck. Start applying these steps early, and your claim will be in a significantly better position by the time a decision is made.
Whether you’re ready to file your first claim or recovering from a denial, getting experienced legal guidance from the start reduces the risk of avoidable mistakes that delay or derail your case.
At Stanley Law Offices, our SSDI attorneys help New York clients file correctly under state and federal guidelines, and fight for every dollar of benefits they’re entitled to. Contact us for a free case review or call 1-800-608-3333 for a free consultation. We take no fees until you win your case.
