DDS stands for Disability Determination Services. They process initial applications and reconsideration appeals for people who file for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid Benefits in North Carolina.
DDS is located in Raleigh, NC. After initial applications for disability benefits are filed at Social Security field offices or online, disability claims are sent to DDS for an examiner to review.
The North Carolina Disability Determination Services examiner will send you paperwork to fill out. You could receive a work history form, pain questionnaire, adult function report or a 3rd party questionnaire may be send to the person you listed as a contact on your application. Fill out this paperwork as soon as you can. If you delay in returning this information to your examiner that elongates the time that you will be waiting for disability benefits.
Your disability examiner may call you and ask questions about where you are receiving medical treatment, if you had/have a workers’ compensation claim, about your income or work performed at the substantial gainful activity level. Be courteous and answer their questions in a timely manner. DDS has a 70% denial rate, but being uncooperative will not help you get on Social Security Benefits.
With the information that the examiner has obtained from you, they should order your medical records from your health care providers and forward all gathered information to a doctor at DDS who will determine your eligibility for SSDI and SSI.
If you are denied at the initial and reconsideration levels by DDS, you will have to request a hearing before an SSA Administrative Law Judge. You can request a hearing by completing the 3441 SSA Disability Appeal Report or by filing an appeal online with the Social Security Administration.
Most people are denied at the initial and reconsideration levels for their disability benefits. If you have received a denial from DDS, give The Bishop Law Firm a call today for a free case evaluation, 919-615-3095. We do not get paid unless you win!
Also read Overview of the Disability Process