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When you apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you must complete several forms. One of these is a function report that describes your physical abilities in detail.
SSD administrators will use the results of this form to assess how your qualifying disabling condition affects your ability to perform typical daily tasks, including working to support yourself.
Our North Carolina Social Security Disability lawyers are familiar with this form and its importance. We can explain how to fill out a function report for SSD and gather the additional information required by the application process.
An attorney can also help you file an appeal and keep fighting for the medical and financial benefits you need.
What Is an SSD Function Report?
A function report is a document that requests detailed information about your general health, disabling condition(s), and physical acuity. This 10-page form asks for the following information:
- Name and contact information
- Social Security number
- Details about your illness, injury, or other medical condition and its effects on your physical and cognitive abilities
- Any medications you take and mobility aids you use
- Details about your daily activities, including what you do on a typical day, whether you care for other people or animals, and what you used to be able to do but cannot anymore
- Details about your current abilities, including personal care, preparing meals, performing house or yardwork, social activities, and hobbies
Completing the function report accurately can cause stress and anxiety. A Social Security disability attorney can help you file a completed form alongside your application within the allotted time.
Is an SSD Function Report Mandatory When Filing a Disability Claim?
Yes. You must complete and submit a function report (form SSA-3373) to apply for disability benefits. You should answer each question with as much relevant detail as possible.
Do not omit anything or leave any part of the form blank. If you are struggling to understand or complete the form, a local attorney can help. They can also help you collect the medical evidence and other information needed for the SSD application process.
Does the Function Report Help Your Social Security Disability Benefits Application?
Proving how your disability impacts your daily life and ability to work is a key factor in getting SSD benefits. When SSD administrators review your application, they will assess the function report to understand the following:
- Your ability to complete household chores and other everyday tasks, including cooking, cleaning, hygiene habits, etc.
- Your ability to complete work-related tasks
- How to develop a conclusive assessment of the limitations imposed by your disability
You can provide additional information not addressed by the form’s questionnaire in the bottom section, if needed.
Complete Each Section of the Function Report Accurately and in Detail
The function report is lengthy and detailed, so completing it independently can take a considerable amount of time. Do not rush. Instead, take your time and ensure you thoroughly understand each question before responding. Be sure to print your answers carefully and clearly or type them out.
Avoid vague, misleading, or incomplete responses. Instead, you should provide complete and honest answers, including all necessary and informative details. For example:
- Rather than saying you have difficulty walking, state that you can only walk for five minutes without feeling weak and fatigued.
- Rather than saying you cannot cook, state that you cannot stand long enough to prepare a meal due to severe pain.
- Rather than saying you can do certain household chores, include information about your ability to complete the chores without having to take breaks
If you need help with personal care tasks such as cleaning, grooming, and dressing yourself, please include that information. Complete, honest, thorough answers can help clarify the limitations you live with and their impact on your daily life.
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Do You Need a Lawyer to Apply for SSD Benefits?
Navigating the SSD function report and all the other steps involved in the disability benefits application process is challenging. If you choose a lawyer to handle your claim (rather than going through the process alone), they will:
- Clarify which SSD program you qualify for
- Compile required personal information
- Gather medical information and evidence
- Appear with you at any required hearings
An attorney can also provide regular updates as your initial disability application moves forward. Plus, they will help you file an effective, well-documented appeal if the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not approve your initial claim.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Disability Benefits Attorney?
It costs nothing out of your pocket to hire an SSD lawyer. They typically do not request any upfront fees or expenses from you. Instead, they work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they will only receive compensation when you receive your disability benefits.
Which SSD Program Asks for a Function Report?
SSD benefits can come from two programs. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are available for people who worked long enough and recently enough and paid Social Security insurance during their employment.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are available for people who have a demonstrated financial need, meet the income threshold, and have little or no resources at their disposal. Either program can request a function report.
Who Can Get Concurrent SSDI and SSI Benefits?
If you qualify to receive SSDI benefits and the resulting income is low enough to meet SSI’s qualifying income guidelines, you could receive concurrent benefits. These dual benefits allow you to get financial compensation from both programs simultaneously.
SSI’s benefits start the month after you receive approval, with additional (possibly lowered) SSDI benefits starting about five months after the date that SSA determines you meet the criteria for disability.
The best way to understand the benefits you can receive is to let a Social Security disability attorney provide the clarity you need.
Get Legal Support When Filling Out a Function Report for SSD
Applying for SSD benefits can involve several forms and other paperwork. If you are seeking SSI or SSDI benefits, our personal injury law firm can help you complete and submit vital documentation.
Learn more about how to fill out a function report for SSD, when one is necessary, and how we can help you file an appeal if the SSA denies your initial application.
We can also explain your potential eligibility for disability benefits. Contact our consultation team at Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, today to get started with a free claim review.
