If you are struggling with a new or worsening illness or disability, then you may be looking into seeking Social Security Disability benefits. Social Security Disability is not always the easiest benefit to get, because you need to prove that your condition fully prevents you from earning a living.
You’ll need to collect medical records for up to two years before stopping work. However, with the right amount of evidence and supporting documentation, you could get the benefits you need.
Evidence comes in all shapes and forms
One thing that can be helpful to you when you seek Social Security Disability is your diary or journal. You should keep a daily log of your symptoms and illness or disability before you start applying for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income.
In this diary, you can keep track of everything from symptoms to your reactions to different medications or treatments. Some of the things to note down include:
- Changes in your physical health, such as changes in your sleep patterns or trouble walking, sitting, standing or lifting
- Pain level changes, including what triggers symptoms or relieves them
- Any changes in how often you have to use the restroom
- If you’re having trouble with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning or doing laundry
- Your psychological health and if you need assistance with tasks due to your physical or mental limitations
These and other pieces of information should be collected and dated. That way, you can submit this list of how your disability prevents you from working with your Social Security Disability application. This diary or journal could help sway the Social Security Administration, so it’s a good idea to include it.