Should I Tell My Doctor I Am Filing For Disability Benefits?

If you're considering filing for Social Security disability benefits, you may wonder whether you should tell your doctor about your plans. While it's not strictly necessary to inform your doctor, doing so can have a number of benefits.

Benefit 1 - Your Doctor Can Provide Supporting Evidence

First, your doctor's support can be invaluable when it comes to your disability claim. One of the most common reasons that applicants are denied is a need for more sufficient medical evidence. Your doctor can help you avoid this by providing detailed medical records and statements about your condition, which can help support your case. Additionally, if your doctor understands the nature of your disability and how it affects your daily life, they can provide more targeted and effective treatment.

Benefit 2 - Your Doctor Can Help Manage Paperwork

Another advantage of telling your doctor about your disability claim is that they can help you manage the paperwork and bureaucracy involved in the process. They may provide guidance on what information you need to provide or help you fill out forms and other documentation.

Potential Downsides

Of course, there are also potential downsides to telling your doctor about your disability claim. Some doctors may be hesitant to get involved in legal matters, or they may not have experience with disability claims. Additionally, some doctors may be less supportive of your claim if they do not believe that you are truly disabled.

The Choice Is Yours

Ultimately, the decision of whether to tell your doctor about your disability claim is a personal one. However, if you have a good relationship with your doctor and trust their judgment, it may be beneficial to inform them about your plans. This can help to ensure that you receive the best possible medical care and support during the disability claims process.


If you have any questions or concerns about the disability claims process, don't hesitate to contact Robyn Ryan for expert guidance and support as you navigate the complexities of the system. Call 901-765-8484 or email robyn@robynryandisabilitylaw.com for a FREE evaluation of your case.