What is the Best Way to Fill Out a Function Report for Disability?

Submitted by Elizabeth on Mon, 03/13/2023 - 09:58

If you are seeking disability benefits through the United States Social Security Administration (SSA), you will need to complete a function report when filing your claim. Completing this step properly plays a critical role in helping you secure the benefits for which you may be eligible. The following overview explains what a function report is as well as why you may consider hiring a legal expert to assist you with the process.

What Is a Function Report for Disability?

A function report is a form the SSA uses to evaluate a person's abilities and limitations as part of their disability claim. It is an important tool the SSA uses to determine an individual's eligibility for disability benefits.

The function report provides the SSA with a detailed description of the individual's daily activities, including information about their physical, mental, and emotional limitations and how these limitations affect their ability to work. The function report also includes information about the person's medical treatment and any assistive devices they use.

A function report for disability is important because it helps the SSA make a fair and accurate assessment of the individual's disability and their ability to perform work-related activities. The function report provides important information about the individual's functional limitations which helps the SSA understand how the applicant’s disability (i.e., medical condition) affects their daily life. The more detailed and accurate the information in the function report, the better the applicant’s chances are of getting an approval for disability benefits.

Who Should Fill Out a Function Report For Disability?

Because you are the one most familiar with your disability and the way(s) it impacts your life, you should be the one to fill out the function report. However, that does not mean you need to do so alone.

Perhaps you can ask a trusted friend to assist you in completing this task. This might be necessary if your disability prevents you from easily completing a function report yourself. However, in these circumstances, it’s often wise to enlist the help of an attorney. You may be more likely to complete a function report for disability thoroughly and accurately if you have expert assistance.

What Should I Include In My Function Report For Disability?

Your primary goal when filling out a function report is to demonstrate the way(s) in which your disability affects your ability to work and perform basic tasks. As such, you must be sure that you answer each and every question accurately and resist the urge to exaggerate. Honesty is key when completing a function report.

What Happens If I Do Not Fill Out the Function Report Correctly?

If you exaggerate when completing a function report for disability, or otherwise fail to complete one correctly, you may not receive benefits from the SSA.

That said, even if you intend to complete a report accurately, you might have questions or doubts about how to do so. This is another reason to hire a lawyer. A disability attorney can offer you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are completing this essential task correctly.

Get in Touch With an SSD Lawyer

Helping you fill out a function report for disability is merely just one way in which an attorney may help you when filing a claim for disability benefits. They could also help you fight for the benefits you may be eligible to receive if the SSA does not approve your initial claim, which is relatively common. To get started, complete the Free Case Evaluation to get connected with an independent, participating attorney who subscribes to the website.