After your Social Security disability benefits application is filed with your district Social Security office it is sent to Disability Determination Services (DDS) in Nebraska or to Disability Determination Services Bureau (DDSB) in Iowa. It is then assigned to a disability examiner. The examiner will make the decision on your initial application and your reconsideration.
It’s easy to let your anxieties about the outcome of your claim decision manifest in resentment towards the examiner. But remember:
The disability examiner isn’t working against you.
The disability determination they write for Omaha disability hearing office is based on the information they were given. Instead of being afraid of the examiner, or blaming them if you receive an unfavorable decision, why not learn about some simple things you can do to help them out? For example:
- Keep the examiner updated on all changes to your contact information.
- Return any phone calls asking for information about doctor's or hospital visits.
- Update the examiner on any changes to your prognosis or health situation.
- Go to any consultative medical examinations the examiner requests.
- Ask if you can help the examiner obtain any medical, employment, or education records.
- Hire an Omaha disability benefits lawyer with knowledge and experience working with the SSA. A good representative will act as a liaison between you and the examiner, handling these issues, and many more, in a professional and timely manner.
If you’ve been denied Social Security disability benefits and find yourself overwhelmed by the claims appeal process, talk to a skilled member of the Cuddigan Law team. Call 402-933-5405 or email [email protected] to learn more. Also be sure to request our no-cost booklet, Give Yourself the Best Chance of Winning Your Social Security Disability Case.