By Michelle Shvarts
Principal Attorney

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims can be daunting, especially when it involves neurological disorders. Whether you’re applying for benefits or appealing a denied claim, having the right documentation is crucial. The experienced Florida Social Security Disability Attorneys at Disability Advocates Group understand the challenges you may face and is here to provide guidance and support through every step of the process.

Understanding Neurological Disorders: Neurological disorders encompass a wide range of conditions that affect the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. These disorders can significantly impact an individual’s ability to work and carry out daily activities. Common neurological disorders that may qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits include epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, and traumatic brain injury (TBI), among others.

The Importance of Documentation: When applying for SSDI or SSI benefits due to a neurological disorder, thorough documentation is key to a successful claim. This documentation serves as evidence of your condition’s severity and how it affects your ability to work. Here are some essential pieces of documentation you’ll need:

  1. Medical Records: Your medical records are perhaps the most critical piece of evidence in your SSDI or SSI claim. These records should include diagnoses, treatment plans, medications prescribed, test results, and notes from healthcare providers. Be sure to gather records from all treating physicians, specialists, therapists, and hospitals you’ve visited for your neurological disorder.
  2. Functional Assessments: Functional assessments provide valuable insight into how your neurological disorder affects your daily life and ability to work. These assessments may include reports from physical therapists, occupational therapists, or vocational experts, detailing your limitations and impairments.
  3. Work History: Providing a detailed work history can help demonstrate how your neurological disorder has impacted your ability to work. Include information about your past jobs, duties performed, dates of employment, and any accommodations or modifications you’ve required due to your condition.
  4. Statements from Witnesses: Statements from friends, family members, coworkers, or supervisors who have observed the impact of your neurological disorder on your daily functioning and ability to work can strengthen your claim.
  5. Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessment: An RFC assessment evaluates your ability to perform work-related activities despite your neurological disorder’s limitations. This assessment considers factors such as physical abilities, cognitive functioning, and emotional stability.

Navigating the Application or Appeal Process: Applying for SSDI or SSI benefits can be a lengthy and complex process, with many applicants facing initial denials. If your claim is denied, don’t lose hope. You have the right to appeal the decision, and Disability Advocates Group is here to help. Our experienced attorneys understand the intricacies of SSDI and SSI law and can guide you through the appeals process.

When appealing a denied claim, it’s essential to act quickly and submit any additional documentation or evidence that supports your case. This may include updated medical records, statements from new healthcare providers, or testimony from vocational experts.

Our Approach: At Disability Advocates Group, we understand the challenges individuals with neurological disorders face when seeking SSDI or SSI benefits. We are committed to providing compassionate and personalized legal representation to clients throughout Florida. Our team will work tirelessly to gather the necessary documentation, build a strong case on your behalf, and advocate for the benefits you deserve.

The SSDI or SSI claims process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with neurological disorders. However, having the right documentation and legal representation can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome. If you’re struggling to obtain SSDI or SSI benefits due to a neurological disorder, don’t hesitate to reach out to Disability Advocates Group for assistance. Whether you live in St. Petersburg or Pembroke Pines, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of the claims process and secure the benefits you need to support yourself and your family.

About the Author
Ms. Shvarts and the rest of the team at Disability Advocates Group are dedicated to assisting individuals in Florida obtain Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.