If you are trying to apply for social security disability, then you may want to know that many people are denied at first. Part of the reason is that they have failed to adequately show that they are disabled enough to get long-term benefits. Simply having a disability listed in the "blue book" doesn't mean you are entitled to benefits. You must be able to prove that not only are you disabled, but you also can't work. To do this, you should have rock-solid medical proof that shows that you really do have a disability. Here are some tips on getting that documentation to better boost your claim.

See Your Doctor

You can't file a claim unless a doctor tells you that you have a disability. The doctor who examines you must be licensed and is specialized in or who has extensive knowledge of your health problem. You should choose a traditional physician over one that does alternative medicine for a better chance of being approved. His or her opinion will weigh heavily in your approval.

Get Documentation

Be sure to get a detailed report from your doctor as to what your disability and how it substantially limits your ability to work. Keep a record of your health issues and appointments as well as any medications. Record exact dates and times of all treatment and include the names of all hospitals and doctors you have seen since the disability started.

Follow Doctor's Orders

It's very important that you follow all your doctor's orders even if you don't think they are necessary. You must show that you are trying to do things to stabilize or improve your condition. Failure to comply with the doctor's orders may give an indication that your disability is not that severe or you don't care about getting better.

Document Your Disability

In addition to documenting your medical condition, you should also keep a journal as to how your disability affects your daily life. This is especially helpful with "unseen" health problems such as fibromyalgia or anxiety where symptoms are erratic and often difficult to diagnose. Make sure you explain what this condition does to make it difficult to perform your daily tasks or how they affect your ability to work.

Many people fail to get approved for social security disability on the first try. That's where a social security disability attorney can be handy. If you need advice about filing a claim, or if you have been denied, then an attorney can help direct you on what you need to do to get approved.