Applying for Social Security Disability? Understanding the new work history rules is crucial, especially if you’re over 50. Here is what you need to know about standing, walking, sitting, and lifting requirements. Don’t let simple mistakes weaken your case – learn the right way to fill out the form. To get started, watch this video and protect your claim.
This is the 3rd part of our three-part series on the new 3369 disability form.
When you’re applying for Social Security Disability, understanding and correctly filling out the new work history form is crucial—especially if you’re over 50. This form isn’t just paperwork; it can make or break your case. I’ll explain the key elements and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Standing, Walking, and Sitting Matter. The first part of the work history form asks about your ability to stand, walk, and sit. It’s tempting to follow the form’s lead and say you can stand and walk for 2 hours and sit for 6. But be careful—this combination makes it harder to win your case. If your job involved a lot of standing, make sure the form reflects that, especially if you had to stand for 6 hours a day and sit for just 2.
Pay Attention to Activity Details. The form also asks about physical activities like stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. While these actions are part of many jobs, they’re usually not done all day long, so they’re less critical. What’s more important is how you use your hands at work—whether it’s typing, pressing buttons, or writing. These activities are often performed throughout the day and should be accurately noted.
Lifting Requirements: A Key Factor. Another critical section is about lifting. Many jobs, even those that are mostly sitting, require you to lift 20 pounds or more. The more you lift and stand, the stronger your disability case could be, particularly if you’re over 50. Be precise about how often you lifted heavy objects—if you’re lifting more than 20 pounds occasionally (up to a third of your day), this could categorize you under “light” work, potentially making your case easier to win.
Mistakes to Avoid. To ensure the most favorable outcome for your claim, it’s crucial to avoid these common mistakes. First, don’t underestimate the physical toll your job has taken on your body. Be painstakingly honest and provide a detailed account of how your work-related duties have affected you physically. Second, don’t overlook the significance of hand-use activities in your profession. These activities are often more critical than you might realize and can significantly impact your ability to work. Lastly, never misreport the lifting requirements of your job. This seemingly small detail can have a drastic impact on the outcome of your claim, potentially leading to its denial or a reduced settlement.
Understanding how to fill out the new work history form accurately can significantly impact your Social Security Disability claim. If you need help or have questions, reach out to The Good Law Group at thegoodlawgroup.com or call 847-577-4476.
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