Independent medical statements for Social Security disability claims. Not part of the Social Security Administration.Not part of the Social Security Administration.
Claimant Medical Opinions

A "disability letter" from your doctor is not what Social Security needs. Here is what is.

Claimants ask their doctors for a letter saying they are disabled, and doctors who write one are surprised when it changes nothing. Under Social Security's rules a statement that someone is disabled or cannot work is an issue reserved to the Commissioner. It is neither valuable nor persuasive by regulation, and the judge is not required to analyze it at all.

What a judge can use.

A function-by-function statement: how much you can lift, how long you can sit, stand and walk, what postures you can tolerate, what environments you must avoid, how often you would be off task and absent, with the reason for each limit and the records that support it. That is a medical source statement, and it is weighed for supportability and consistency.

Who can write it.

Your treating physician is the obvious source and often declines. For claims filed after March 27, 2017, licensed nurse practitioners and physician assistants are acceptable medical sources, and any medical source's opinion on function is evaluated under the same two factors. An independent clinician who reviews your complete record can write the statement, as long as the opinion states what it rests on and cites the record.

How I do it.

  1. 1

    Free review.

    Fill in the short form below. I reply within 24 hours with secure instructions for sending your records. Do not put medical details in the form.

  2. 2

    I read everything.

    Your records, your denial letter, and a written questionnaire I send you about your daily limits.

  3. 3

    I tell you the truth.

    If your records support a statement, I tell you which limits they support and the flat fee. If they do not, I tell you that, there is no charge, and you have lost nothing.

  4. 4

    The statement goes in your file.

    If you have an attorney or representative, I deliver it to them and they file it before your hearing deadline. If you do not, I give you the signed PDF and plain instructions for submitting it.