What to Not Say When Applying For Disability

When you’re preparing for a disability interview, it’s crucial to understand that what you say can significantly impact the outcome of your application. This guide will help you navigate this important conversation by highlighting key areas where you need to be careful.

What Should You Not Say in a Disability Interview?

Let’s discuss what information you should and shouldn’t include in your disability application and interview.

Work-Related Information: Play it Safe

Your work history is an essential part of your disability claim, but discussing it requires a delicate touch. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Past Job Responsibilities: While it’s important to be honest about your work history, be cautious about emphasizing tasks you once performed with ease. Focus instead on how your condition has affected your ability to work.
2. Recent Part-Time Work or Hobbies: Mentioning any recent work or active hobbies might inadvertently suggest a higher level of capability than your claim indicates. Stick to discussing how your condition limits your activities.
3. Desire to Return to Work: It’s natural to want to work again, but expressing this too strongly during your interview could be misinterpreted as current ability rather than future aspiration.

Medical Information: Accuracy is Key

Your medical history forms the backbone of your disability claim. Here’s how to approach this sensitive topic.

1. Symptoms and Diagnoses: Provide an accurate representation of your symptoms without exaggeration. Omitting key medical information can be just as damaging as overstating your condition.
2. Professional Medical Opinions: Rely on documented diagnoses and treatments from medical professionals. Avoid mentioning unofficial medical opinions or self-diagnoses.
3. Consistency is Crucial: Ensure that your account aligns with your medical records. Any inconsistencies could raise doubts about the severity of your condition.

Financial and Personal Life Considerations

1. Financial Status: Be cautious when discussing your financial situation, including assets or other income sources. This information can influence perceptions of your need for disability benefits.
2. Daily Activities: While it’s important to be honest, be mindful of how you describe your daily life. Activities that suggest a higher level of capability than claimed could potentially harm your case.

The Digital Dilemma: Social Media and Online Presence

In today’s interconnected world, your online presence can significantly impact your disability claim. Here’s what to be aware of:

1. Social Media Posts: Be cautious about what you share on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Photos or posts showing physical activities or social outings, even if they’re rare occurrences, could be misinterpreted.
2. Anonymous Forums: Even on seemingly anonymous platforms like Reddit, be careful about sharing details of your daily life or condition. These posts can often be traced back to you.
3. Content Creation: If you’re active on platforms like TikTok or YouTube, remember that creating content, even if it’s not physically demanding, could raise questions about your ability to work.
4. Online Businesses: Running an online store (e.g., on Etsy) or engaging in online marketing activities might be seen as evidence of your capacity to manage a business, even if it’s just a hobby.
5. Gaming and Online Communities: Extensive participation in online gaming or forums could be interpreted as having the ability to concentrate for long periods, potentially contradicting your claim.

Discussing Finances in Your Application

The financial aspect of your application depends on the type of disability benefits you’re seeking:

1. Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For SSI applications, your financial status is a crucial factor. Ensure that your discussion of finances aligns perfectly with the information in your application.
2. Social Security Disability Insurance (SDDI): SSDI applications focus more on your work history and how your disability impacts your ability to work. In this case, your current financial situation is less relevant.

Get Guidance For Your Disability Interview

Navigating a disability interview can be challenging, but with careful preparation and awareness, you can present your case effectively. Remember, the goal is to provide an accurate and honest representation of how your condition affects your ability to work and perform daily activities.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process, consider seeking guidance from a long-term disability attorney. They can provide valuable insights and help you prepare for your interview, ensuring that you present your case in the most effective manner possible.

Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, LLC. is here to help guide you through the entire process, from submitting application materials to disability interviews and appeals. Our attorneys help ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.