If you have recently become disabled, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. But you should know going into this process that there is no guarantee that your claim will be approved. For a successful claim, you'll need to do a bit of homework and make sure you have all the documentation you need before you move forward. Here are three tips to keep in mind when filing a Social Security Disability claim.

Don't Be A Tough Guy

Depending on what happened to you, you may feel the need to put on a brave face and try to act like your injury or disability is no big deal. But that is exactly the wrong approach to take when filing a claim. You need to document every last bit of pain you are experiencing and make sure this is included in any documentation that you present for the claim. Get every last pain symptom on record as it could lead to a larger payout. Remember that mental conditions count just as much as physical problems.

Don't Try To Take On A Job

While it can take some time for a claim to be approved, you want to avoid working a job as this could count as "gainful employment" as far as the SSA is concerned and could be used against you to deny your claim. Remember, the reason you are going through this process is because you can no longer work the same job you had before the injury. Taking literally any other job on during this time frame is counterproductive, even if you find an employer who will work with your disability. If you need to make ends meet until your claim is approved, take on a loan or ask family and friends for help.

Hire An Attorney

For best results when it comes to your Social Security Disability claim, you need to hire an expert. That means contacting a local Social Security Disability law firm and letting them lead the charge on your claim. A good lawyer will be able to make sure all of your medical information is collected and ready to go, and will help you avoid paperwork errors that could needlessly torpedo your claim before it even begins.

If you want to achieve success on your Social Security Disability claim on the first try, be sure to fully document every single pain symptom or health problem you have, both physical and mental. Avoid taking on gainful employment without first consulting with a lawyer and be willing to let that lawyer lead the charge on your claim.