If you've had to quit your job and apply for disability because poor eyesight prevents you from working, then you know how confusing it is when Social Security says you are not blind or disabled. You know how frustrating it is to have Social Security deny your disability claim. But don't give up.
It helps to know how Social Security evaluates vision claims. Social Security has a list of vision impairments... which can be found on the Social Security web site. The agency first looks at this list and if you meet the conditions detailed there then Social Security says you are disabled and will pay you the benefits that you are due. But most applicants don't meet the conditions in the listings. They have to establish their limitations by conclusively proving they are unable to do any work.
We have learned a lot from our experience in representing disability applicants with vision problems. The first two most important things you should do before your disability hearing are: obtain a medical report from your eye doctor that specifically identifies each of your limitations...and be able to show why your visual limitations will eliminate all the jobs a vocational expert may identify. There are also some key questions you should be prepared to answer at your disability hearing. Like…
Did your past employer accommodate your vision problems on the job?
Do you still drive a car? This is often the first question the judge asks.
Have you made changes at home because of your vision or eyesight problems?
Are you able to see or read without holding things close to your face?
And these are just a few examples.
A disability hearing is your best chance to present your claim because you get to make your case in person. It is the most important part of your disability claim, so being thoroughly prepared is critical.
This is where an attorney can really help you. At Cuddigan Law from the moment we start representing you, we work hard to gather all the medical records from your health care providers that will support your case and we thoroughly prepare you for your hearing. At Cuddigan Law you have a dedicated team of professionals in your corner who understand the system and who will fight for your rights. Call us for a free evaluation of your case.
