Will a small error on your SSDI form put your disability claim at risk? Most applicants unconsciously provide details about their ability to lift, stand or perform routine tasks, which can lead to delays or rejections. Today, I'll take you through two forms, often filled in incorrectly: Work History Reports and Feature Reports, and how to get them right. For example, if you list “laundry” but want to get help, you must report this way or Social Security may assume you do it alone. Watch this video to avoid common SSDI form errors.
Understanding the paperwork involved in a Social Security disability claim is essential for anyone applying. In particular, there are two forms that often lead to rejection of the application and reconsideration phase: the Work History Report (Form SSA-3369) and the Feature Report (Form SSA-3373). Many applicants make mistakes unconsciously when completing these forms, which can greatly weaken their cases.
Work history form
The report asked about past employment and physical requirements. Many people underestimate the weight they gain at work. Some applicants say they only lift 5 pounds, but in fact, daily tasks such as mobile tables and chairs may require lifting 20 pounds or more.
Misjudgment of weight or inability to accurately report standing time can be opposite to the claim. Since Social Security closely monitors how much time an applicant spends and how much time they lift it, reporting on these activities can make it difficult for people to prove the need for benefits.
Functional form
The report asks the applicant for his ability to perform daily activities. Applicants often list the tasks they are trying to perform without clarifying whether they are getting help or not being able to complete them.
For example, someone might write that they “done laundry” when in fact, family members will assist them. If help is needed, the task should not be described as done independently. This also applies to activities such as taking care of grandchildren, doing dishes or cleaning. Applicants should specify when to rely on help and describe how they perform these tasks before the condition begins.
Another overlooked section in the functional report involves personal care. Applicants often fail to mention the difficulties of basic self-care tasks such as getting to and from the toilet or feeding themselves. If conditions affect hand function or mobility, they should be clearly described. These details help show how disability affects daily life.
It is also important to address the symptoms of disability. Some conditions are constant, while others are intermittent. For example, people with migraine or seizures usually function normally between seizures but suffer severe damage in one episode. In this case, the answer should reflect life in those plots, not in between, because that is when disability exists.
Mistakes or omissions in both forms can lead to unnecessary delays or even refusals in Social Security disability claims. Accuracy, specificity and honesty are essential to limiting and the assistance needed to build a strong case. If you have questions or need guidance, you can contact us at (800) 419-7606. We are here to help you.
