The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes Bipolar Disorder as a disabling condition that can result in disability payments. My clients often tell me Bipolar Disorder prevents them from getting and keeping a job. While the symptoms may vary from person to person, I see many of my clients simply not having the ability to concentrate or focus long enough to maintain employment.
The SSA acknowledges Bipolar Disorder in its Listing of Impairments under listing 12.04 Depressive, Bipolar, and Other Related Disorders. If you meet or equal this listing, you may be eligible for benefits. However, there also may be technical criteria that must be met. Since there is no objective testing that can show the presence of Bipolar Disorder; hospitalizations, ongoing therapy records, and medication compliance may be the key to receiving benefits.
In my Social Security Disability practice, one of the challenges to these cases can be consistent and ongoing therapy records, as the diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder is not going to be enough. The SSA generally wants to see a client-patient relationship documenting the ongoing mental illness and compliance with medications prescribed. If the symptoms still exist after pursuing consistent treatment, then your claim may be given greater weight.
A medical source statement from a treating mental health specialist can help the Social Security Administration and/or an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) determine your condition is severe enough to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Some health care professionals are unwilling to produce these types of documents, but it may be in your best interest to ask if they will take the time to do so. In my experience, these statements should contain a clear diagnosis, how long the condition has lasted and is expected to last, the symptoms, and an opinion on whether the patient is able to work a full time job.
Social Security Disability: Claim Denied?
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I have represented thousands of clients in front of the SSA and take great pride in getting Indiana residents the benefits they deserve. A successful claim has various components, and a comprehensive medical record can have a huge impact on receiving payments to help you and your family when you are unable to work.
