Social Security disability insurance is an essential tool for disabled Americans, but the SSA’s Daily Living Activities questionnaire feels like an exam you can't afford to fail. Every answer could make or break your disability claim—and your financial future. But you don't have to face this high-stakes form alone.
Trusted Louisiana disability attorney Phillip Hendry is here to guide you through every step for the best possible outcome. Here’s how to fill out the Activities of Daily Living form when applying for SSDI benefits.
What Is the SSDI Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire?
The SSDI Activities Daily Living questionnaire, also known as the Function Report (Form SSA-3373-BK), is a comprehensive assessment of how your disability impacts your everyday life. This multi-page form asks detailed questions about your ability to perform a wide range of activities, including:
- Personal care. The questionnaire asks about your ability to perform self-care tasks, including bathing, dressing, grooming, using the toilet, and feeding yourself. You'll need to describe any difficulties or assistance required in these areas.
- Household chores. The form inquires about your ability to manage household responsibilities, including preparing meals, doing laundry, cleaning, shopping, and maintaining your living space. Be specific about any limitations or accommodations you need.
- Physical activities. You'll be asked to detail your physical capabilities, including walking, standing, sitting, lifting, carrying, and using your hands for tasks like writing or manipulating objects. Quantify your limitations, such as the duration you can stand or the maximum weight you can lift.
- Mental functions. The questionnaire assesses your cognitive and emotional capacities, including your ability to concentrate, remember information, follow instructions, manage stress, and interact with others. Describe any challenges you face in these areas and how they affect your daily life.
- Social interaction. The form asks about your social life, hobbies, and interests. You'll need to explain how your disability has impacted your ability to engage in these activities and maintain relationships.
- Work-related skills. The questionnaire may also ask about your work history and any job-related skills or training you have. Be honest about how your disability has affected your ability to perform work tasks and meet job demands.
The SSDI questionnaire is designed to paint a comprehensive picture of how your disability affects every aspect of your daily functioning. Your answers will be used to assess the severity of your condition and determine your eligibility for benefits. Providing thorough, accurate, and consistent information is crucial to the success of your claim.
Inaccurate, incomplete, or inconsistent information can undermine your credibility and lead to claim denial. But when you work with an experienced Louisiana disability lawyer, you gain a powerful advocate to help you present the strongest possible case.
How to Fill Out the SSDI Daily Living Questionnaire
Be Thorough, Specific, and Honest
- Provide concrete examples. Don't just say a task is difficult—explain exactly how your condition limits you.
- Quantify your challenges. How long does it take you to get dressed compared to before? How far can you walk without pain?
- Describe your worst days. The SSA needs to understand the full impact of your disability, not just your average abilities.
- Never exaggerate or minimize. Stick to the facts about how your condition affects you, even if it feels uncomfortable to share.
Highlight Your Limitations, Not Just Your Abilities
When you live with a disability every day, it's easy to downplay your struggles and adapt to a "new normal." But on the Daily Living questionnaire, it's crucial to paint a detailed picture of your limitations:
- Explain how you've modified tasks. Do you rely on gadgets, take regular rest breaks, or seek help from others to get through the day?
- List the side effects of your treatment. Describe how medication, therapy, or other interventions affect your stamina and overall function.
- Note what you've given up. If you've had to abandon hobbies, social activities, or household duties, describe how and why.
Get Help from a Louisiana Disability Attorney
Completing the SSDI Daily Living Questionnaire is a complex and consequential task. An experienced Louisiana disability lawyer can be an invaluable partner in this process by:
- Reviewing your answers for clarity, consistency, and completeness.
- Identifying areas where you need to provide more detail or examples.
- Ensuring your responses align with your medical records and doctor’s opinions.
- Spotting potential red flags that could invite added scrutiny from the SSA.
Your disability affects every aspect of your life—but condensing that reality into a questionnaire is daunting. Louisiana disability attorney Phillip Hendry can help you present an accurate and compelling picture of your limitations. With the right answers and advocacy, you can maximize your chances of getting the SSDI benefits you deserve.