Your doctor diagnosed you with obesity. Although you’ve been following all of your doctor’s orders, your obesity has made it difficult to move the way you once used to. Now, you can no longer work and you need help. So why did the Social Security Administration (SSA) deny your application to receive Social Security disability in Boston for your obesity?
The Truth About the SSA and Obesity
Despite the fact that your doctor considers obesity a disease, the SSA still does not have a specific listing for this illness. People like you who apply to receive disability income face an uphill battle. You do not have guidelines on what the SSA looks for when it comes to approving or denying your application for Social Security disability. You also must submit a wealth of evidence in hopes that something you give will allow you to get the income you need.
The truth about the SSA is that they recognize obesity as a disabling symptom, but not as a qualifying disability. This makes your job of applying to receive disability even more difficult.
Submitting an Appeal
You are able to appeal your denial. When you submit your appeal, consider whether you were diagnosed with any other conditions listed by the SSA. Some common conditions people with obesity are diagnosed with include cardiovascular disease or musculoskeletal disease. If you were not diagnosed with any other conditions, you will need to submit a residual functional capacity (RFC) form.
While putting together your RFC form, you must show that you are significantly limited in your ability to function. Here are a few examples of what caseworkers need to see on this form in order to approve your Social Security benefits:
- You are limited in your ability to sit or stand for an extended period of time.
- You cannot lift or balance heavy objects
- You are unable to walk an extended distance without stopping.
- You are unable to kneel, crouch, bend, or stoop to pick up items on the ground.
- You cannot use your fingers for detailed tasks, such as typing, writing, or any other manual jobs.
As you consider your disabling symptoms, remember that the RFC form is intended to show how they directly impact your ability to work. You must also show that you cannot perform sedentary work, such as work behind a desk or on the phone. For example, if you get excruciating pain from standing or sitting for a long period of time, you will not be able to perform manual labor or work behind a desk.
Filling out the RFC form allows you to show how your obesity directly impacts your ability to work. Always remember that the SSA must see how your medical condition disables you from being able to perform the job or jobs you once held. Show this, and you’ll be more likely to have your appeal approved.
Have you used an RFC form in your application or appeal for SSDI in Boston for obesity? Let us know your experience in the comments below.
Are You Looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney in Boston, MA?
If you are looking to apply for social security disability, you need to speak with an experienced social security disability lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Natick Office directly at 888.904.6847 to schedule your free consultation.
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