What SSDI is based on
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is tied to covered work history and Social Security's disability rules. A useful file separates the non-medical work-credit issue from the medical question of whether the condition prevents substantial work for the required period.
Four parts of an SSDI file
| Part | What to organize |
|---|---|
| Work coverage | Earnings record, work credits, Date Last Insured questions, and job history. |
| Medical evidence | Providers, diagnoses, testing, treatment, symptoms, and functional limitations. |
| Work function | Past job duties, exertional demands, attendance, pace, concentration, and accommodations. |
| Current SSA action | Application request, denial notice, appeal receipt, hearing notice, or continuing review. |
Official SSDI starting points
Questions before a representative review
- Is the disputed issue work coverage, medical disability, onset, past work, or an appeal deadline?
- Which medical records cover the period before any Date Last Insured issue?
- What does the current SSA notice say is missing or not persuasive?
- What new evidence has been created since the last decision?