Building a Strong Social Security Disability Case for Vision Impairments
Are you considering applying for Social Security disability benefits for a vision impairment and want to know how to strengthen your case?
My name is Kaitlin Wildoner, and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better.
In this video, we will discuss building a strong disability case for vision impairments.
1. Obtain Comprehensive Medical Documentation
Make sure that you have obtained comprehensive medical documentation from qualified medical professionals. This can mean having your vision evaluated by an ophthalmologist or optometrist.
Because vision claims are very different from a musculoskeletal or mental health condition, you may want to review the Blue Book of listings to understand what the Social Security Administration will be looking for specifically in your claim. It can be helpful to compare the documentation and ensure that it lines up with what the Social Security Administration considers to be disabling.
2. Include Specific Diagnoses and Functional Impact
When reviewing those medical records, make sure that the documentation includes specific diagnoses of your visual condition.
In the application and the forms that you submit regarding your condition, demonstrate the impact that your vision condition has on your ability to function. You can do this by providing detailed information on how your condition impacts major life activities, especially those that are related to work. Include specific examples of tasks that you struggle with due to your vision impairment.
3. Ensure Documentation is Current and Thorough
Finally, ensure that your documentation is current and thorough.
- Submit evaluations and diagnostic testing that are no more than 2 years old.
- Include a complete history of your vision impairment, including the date of onset, even if that date of onset is outside of the last two years.
- If your documentation is older than two years, it can be helpful to have a qualified professional provide an update on your diagnosis and current functional limitations.
Final Thoughts
Remember, the key is to clearly demonstrate how your vision impairment meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability and prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity.
Providing current, thorough medical evidence and detailed information about your functional limitations can help to strengthen your case.
Thanks so much for watching!
If you’re disabled and unable to work, we’re here to help. Click this scheduling link or call us directly to schedule a free consultation where we’ll discuss your case and see how we can help you.
