When it comes to Social Security and long-term disability claims, you might think only doctors and vocational experts have a say in the outcome. But did you know that even regular folks, like your friends and family, can provide valuable evidence to support your disability claim?
Don’t underestimate the power of witness statements from family, friends, and coworkers, when it comes to fighting for your disability benefits.
Who Can Be a Witness in Your Disability Claim?
According to Social Security’s Regulation 20 CFR 404.1513(d), your impairment and how it affects your daily functioning can be demonstrated not just by medical professionals but also by “other sources.”
These sources can include medical professionals other than your doctor, such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, therapists, and more.
Additionally, non-medical sources like teachers, counselors, neighbors, and even employers can provide valuable insights. These individuals, who witness the daily challenges brought about by your disability, often possess the most impactful evidence.
The Power of Witness Statements from Family, Friends, and Coworkers
You might think that live testimony is necessary, but that’s not the case.
Written statements from witnesses, be they friends, family, or others, can carry significant weight.
These statements help Social Security and long-term disability insurers understand your symptoms’ intensity, persistence, and impact. So, if someone has observed your struggles, their written statement can make a strong impact.
Observations Speak Louder than Opinions
When gathering witness statements, it’s crucial to focus on direct observations rather than opinions.
Stick to what witnesses have personally seen or heard. Opinions can be easily discounted, so it’s best to avoid them. Instead, have your witnesses describe specific instances they’ve witnessed, like unsuccessful attempts at certain tasks or moments when you’ve asked for assistance.
These firsthand observations hold great weight and can be documented in sworn affidavits or statements made under penalty of perjury.
For example, your co-worker who works alongside you every day may provide the strongest evidence with clear-cut examples of how you can no longer do your job.
Examples of specific firsthand observations could include:
“Joe used to be able to bring all the boxes into the warehouse, but he’s no longer able to do that due to his chronic back pain.”
“Jane can no longer attend our staff meetings because she can’t concentrate long enough to get through all the topics.”
“Sue’s hands shake so badly that she can’t use the computer keyboard anymore.”
Another thing you can do to strengthen your long-term or Social Security disability claim is to keep a daily journal of your own symptoms.
To help you do this, Tucker Disability Law has created a proven-to-work Capability Journal.
This journal, created for clients just like you, will make it easy to keep a daily log you can show to your doctor.
Download your FREE proven-to-work Capability Journal now.
Why Witness Statements Matter in Your Disability Claim
If you haven’t gathered witness statements from those who know you best, you’re missing out on a powerful opportunity to support your Social Security and long-term disability claim.
Statements from family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers can offer concrete examples of your limitations, helping others understand why you’re unable to perform regular work.
Underestimating the impact of witness statements in a disability case could potentially result in a denial of your claim, as these statements serve as crucial evidence to support and validate the limitations imposed by your disability.
Tucker Disability Law Can Help
If you’ve been denied long-term disability benefits, we can help. We have over 30+ years fighting the insurance companies and have a 98% win rate.
Use the blue contact section NOW to call us, live chat with us, or message us using our confidential contact form.
At Tucker Disability Law we don’t settle for less. Neither should you.
