The process for getting government benefits is long and challenging. You’ll probably have to complete multiple forms and submit supporting documents before your claim is approved. At some point, Social Security might ask you to complete an Adult Function Report. It’s essential to understand the purpose of this form before you complete it.
Form SSA-3373 a/k/a the Adult Function Report
The Social Security Administration (Social Security or SSA) manages programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In fact, you will submit forms to Social Security when applying for these programs.
The Adult Function Report form is used to collect additional information about your claim. First, you will notice the Privacy Act Statement about how your personal data is collected and used.
Let’s look at the form itself.
Section A of the Adult Function Report
The form starts with a warning about making false statements or misrepresentations. As you complete this report, make sure your answers are truthful and complete.
This section just looks for basic data about the person who is applying for benefits.
Section B – Information About Your Illnesses, Injuries, or Conditions
The title makes it appear that this section of the Adult Function Report is looking for general information. However, what they really want to see is how your medical condition affects your ability to work. Instead of just writing down symptoms, make sure you describe how they prevent you from working.
Section C of the Adult Function Report
In this part of the form, you will describe how your medical condition affects your daily activities. It’s not really talking about your work-related activities. Instead, Social Security wants to see more information about what you do during the day. Also, you will need to describe how your condition affects your ability to:
- care for yourself and others
- prepare meals
- do house and yard work
- get around
- shop
- handle money
- participate in hobbies, special interests, and social activities
Section D – Information About Abilities
This section asks for information about specific activities and abilities. It also asks your opinion about things like how well you handle stress and whether you have noticed any unusual behavior. Questions in this section ask for specifics about any medical devices you use, like wheelchairs or hearing aids. Finally, you will need to provide a complete list of medications you take any side effects.
Section E of the Adult Function Report
This final section of Form SSA-3373 asks for information you feel was not included in the previous parts of the sections. Also, and this is important, you must give the name and contact information of anyone who completed the form for you.
Concerned About Your Adult Function Report or About Getting Disability Benefits?
Many first-time claims are denied. Sometimes a Social Security attorney could have prevented denials caused by technical deficiencies. When going through the appeal process, it helps to have someone in your corner. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have the experience and ability to take on your case. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. We assist clients throughout Southern California from our home office in Anaheim.
