Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by diminishing bone density that impacts a large number of Americans each year. When bones lose density, they become more porous than normal and that can lead to fractures from even the simplest of movements. If you have been suffering from osteoporosis and it has impacted your ability to work, you could qualify for Social Security disability benefits that can help pay for medical care and your daily needs.
In order to determine your eligibility for Social Security disability benefits, you will need to submit a comprehensive application to the Social Security Administration. The SSA will first determine whether you worked long enough to be eligible for disability benefits, and then they will need proof that your disability makes it impossible for you to work.
To optimize your chances for approval, you may choose to work with a disability attorney who can help with the application and provide legal assistance as needed during the application process.
Medical Documents Needed in Your Application
If your osteoporosis diagnosis prevents you from having the ability to work for at least 12 months, you can file an application for disability benefits. You’ll need to provide medical documentation of your osteoporosis diagnosis, complete with supporting evidence of your diagnosis and treatment.
The following information should be provided when you file your application:
- Report from your physician outlining the diagnosis, the history of the disease and the treatment plan. Be sure to include any applicable lab tests or scans that you have completed as part of your condition
- A complete list of the medical specialists managing your care, including their names, contact information and office locations
- A complete list of medical facilities where you have received treatment for your osteoporosis
- A timeline of your diagnosis with a list of dates when you received treatment at the above-listed facilities
- Your treatment plan, list of medications and any side effects your have experienced as part of the treatment plan.
Other Information You’ll Need
Although your application is being screened by the Social Security Administration, it will expedite your application process if you can provide as much information about your employment history as possible.
In order to be eligible for disability benefits, you must have been employed long enough to qualify for benefits. The records you provide should detail your work history and that you were able to work full time prior to being diagnosed with osteoporosis.
You should also include the following information:
- Your work history
- Recent W-2 forms, or your federal tax returns for the past year (especially if you are self-employed)
- Your Social Security Number and birth certificate
How a Social Security Attorney Can Help You with Your Application
As you can see, there is a lot of information that must be included with your application and it can be overwhelming. Hiring a Social Security lawyer can help you navigate the application process by helping gather the pertinent information and ensuring that your claim is complete.
In many cases, Social Security attorneys will take your case without requiring payment, and you will only have to pay for their services should you win your case. Complete the Free Case Evaluation on this page today!
