If you are looking to apply for Social Security disability benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), there is a good chance you will need to be interviewed by Disability Determination Services, also known as DDS. This process may seem frightening, but it is considered critical to ensuring you get the benefits you deserve. But what is DDS, and why might you need to visit their offices if you apply for disability benefits?
What is Disability Determination Services (DDS)?
In simple terms, Disability Determination Services is a state-run office that conducts medical and psychological evaluations on behalf of the Social Security Administration (SSA). Whenever someone applies for SSDI and SSI, except under certain specific circumstances, they will need to be examined by DDS. While this may sound scary, in reality it is similar to any other medical or psychological exam, although the stakes can be quite significant.
Why Do You Need to Be Examined By DDS?
Put simply, the SSA does not want to rely solely on the records provided by doctors or other medical professionals to determine if someone is disabled. The medical examiners at DDS are independent, and provide their own evaluation of an applicant’s medical condition based on all observable evidence. They compare an applicant’s symptoms to the “Blue Book,” which is a manual of all medically recognized disorders, to determine if their condition meets any of their criteria (although failure to meet specific criteria is not immediately disqualifying).
What Happens When You Are Examined by DDS?
When you go to be examined by DDS, you are subjected to a two-part examination intended to determine the nature and severity of your disability. The first part is a standard medical or psychological evaluation, conducted similarly to any other exam. The second part is an interview, where the examiner hears from the applicant to learn about how their disability has affected their life and their ability to function. Provided the applicant meets all criteria, they will then be given approval to obtain disability benefits.
What Should You Do?
Getting through a DDS interview, as well as the other aspects of applying for SSDI or SSI benefits, can be incredibly stressful. That is why you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling disability benefits applications. They can help you review your case and ensure you get the best possible outcome for your situation.
If you or a loved one need assistance applying for SSDI or SSI benefits, it is important that you seek the guidance of an experienced Social Security Disability benefits lawyer. The lawyers at Sullivan & Kehoe, LLP have over 50 years of combined experience between its attorneys and are available to you or your loved one in obtaining Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits. To schedule a consultation with our New York Social Security Disability benefits lawyers, call (631) 823-7155.
