What Happens After I Fill Out a Function Report for Disability?

After you fill out a Function Report for Disability, the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your report alongside medical records and other evidence to assess your eligibility for benefits. 

The information you provide plays a crucial role in evaluating your claim. This report details how your condition affects your daily life, including your ability to perform routine tasks and engage in social activities. 

If you’re in South Carolina and navigating this complex process, consulting a Greenville Social Security Disability lawyer can be invaluable. A lawyer from Pilzer Klein can help ensure that your Function Report accurately reflects your situation and advocate for your rights throughout the claims process. Our legal team has over 50 years of combined experience.

What Is the Function Report for Disability, and Why Does the SSA Use It?

A Social Security Disability lawyer can help you fill out an Adult Function Report or Form SSA-3373. This comprehensive form gathers detailed information about an individual’s daily activities and functional limitations. It helps assess how a disability impacts various aspects of life, including personal care, social interactions, and the ability to perform work-related tasks.

The SSA uses this report to gain insight into the claimant’s day-to-day experiences and challenges. By evaluating the information provided, the SSA can better understand the severity of the disability and how it affects the individual’s overall functionality. 

This helps the SSA make informed decisions about eligibility for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Essentially, the Adult Function Report serves as a crucial tool in painting a complete picture of how a disability influences a person’s life, ensuring that claims are fairly evaluated based on real-life experiences.

After Your Fill Out the Function Report for Disability, The SSA May Ask for Additional Information

Once you submit your Adult Function Report, several key processes occur that can significantly impact the evaluation of your disability claim. 

The SSA May Ask for Additional Information

The SSA may reach out to you for further details or clarification regarding the information you’ve provided. This could involve questions about your daily activities, the severity of your symptoms, or any inconsistencies noted in your report. Responding promptly and thoroughly is essential, as this can affect the outcome of your claim.

The SSA Schedules a Consultative Exam

If the SSA determines that they need more medical evidence to support your claim, they might schedule a consultative exam with a healthcare professional. This exam is conducted to assess your medical condition and its impact on your daily life. It is especially common when the SSA lacks sufficient medical documentation to confirm your diagnosis.

Your Doctor Submits Additional Evidence

In addition to the consultative exam, the SSA may request your doctor to fill out a similar form that details your medical condition and functional limitations. This form helps the SSA gather more comprehensive information about your health and how it affects your ability to work and perform daily tasks.

The SSA Makes a Decision

After gathering all necessary information, the SSA will review your entire claim, including the Function Report, consultative exam results, and any additional documentation. They will then make a decision regarding your eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits and communicate this decision to you. 

This process can take time, so it’s important to remain patient and proactive and respond to the SSA’s requests for more information.

How a Lawyer Can Help if the SSA Denies Your Claim

If the SSA denies your disability claim after reviewing your Function Report, it can be disheartening and overwhelming. However, a lawyer can help you appeal a decision. 

Here’s how a South Carolina Social Security Disability lawyer can assist you.

Examining the Reason for the Denial

A lawyer can help you understand the specific reasons for the denial. They will review your claim and the SSA’s decision, identifying any gaps in the information provided or specific criteria that were not met.

Gathering Additional Evidence

To strengthen your case, a lawyer can assist in gathering additional medical evidence and documentation. This may include obtaining updated medical records, collecting reports from your healthcare providers, or securing opinions from specialists that support your claim.

Requesting a Reconsideration

Appealing a denied SSD claim can be complex due to strict deadlines and procedures. A lawyer can guide you through this process, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time. The first step is to request reconsideration. 

Preparing for a Hearing

If the SSA upholds its original decision after reconsidering your claim, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). A lawyer will prepare you for what to expect. 

They can help you understand the questions you may face, assist in presenting your case, and represent you during the hearing to advocate on your behalf.

A lawyer familiar with Social Security Disability law can leverage their knowledge and experience to argue your case and address complications that may arise during the appeals process.

Appealing With the Appeals Council or Taking Legal Action

If the ALJ also upholds the SSA’s original decision, an attorney can appeal your denial with the Appeals Council. From there, a lawyer can even file a federal district court action. 

Call Us to Find Out What Happens After You Fill Out a Function Report for Disability

After you fill out a Function Report for Disability, our attorneys with Pilzer Klein will help you throughout the rest of the application process. If you receive a denial letter, our South Carolina Social Security Disability attorneys will assist with the various steps of the appeals process. 

We can help clarify the denial, gather necessary evidence, and guide you through the appeals process. Don’t hesitate to reach out for legal assistance; call us today for a free consultation. You can also read our client testimonials.