Houston Disability Claims
Evidence used to evaluate and decide disability claims
The first thing that the Social Security Administration does is to review your application to make sure you meet some basic requirements for disability benefits. You must have worked enough years to qualify, and in addition your current work activities are evaluated. If you meet these requirements, your application is sent to the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in your state.
The DDS is responsible for making the decision for your disability claim if filing in Houston and throughout the state of Texas. Their decision is based on information provided by doctors and disability specialists in the state agency who ask your doctors for information about your condition. Medical evidence from doctors and hospitals, clinics or institutions where you have been treated and all other related information is reviewed.
Questions asked to an applicant's doctor and/or medical provider can include the following:
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The doctors are also asked about the ability of the applicant to do work-related activities, such as walking, sitting, lifting, carrying, and remembering instructions. The doctors are not asked to decide if an applicant is disabled.
There is a five-step process to decide if you are disabled:
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When the state agency reaches a decision on a case, it sends the applicant a letter. If the application is approved, the letter shows the amount of the benefit and when payments will start. If the application is not approved, the letter explains why and tells how to appeal the decision if the applicant does not agree with it.
One of our attorneys can help
If you have an experienced Texas Social Security disability attorney from the Abbott Law Office fighting for you, your chances of collecting Social Security disability in Houston are better. We are experienced with all aspects of the Houston disability claims process, from application, through hearing. If you are denied benefits, we know how to present the best possible case on your behalf on appeal.
