How you fill out the Social Security Function Report (Form SSA-3373) is crucial to the success of your Social Security Disability claim. This detailed form collects essential information about how your medical condition affects your ability to work. Many applicants find this form overwhelming or confusing, but understanding how to complete it accurately can significantly impact your success in the disability claim process.

In this blog post, we will guide you through filling out the Social Security Function Report, offering valuable tips and insights to help you complete this critical form. By the end of this post, you will feel more confident and informed about completing Form SSA-3373 accurately and effectively.

To apply for disability benefits, you need to submit an application to the Social Security Administration (SSA). There are two main types of benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

For SSDI, you can apply if you’ve worked and paid taxes for years but now cannot work. SSI is available for individuals with low income and limited work history.

To get started, fill out the main disability benefits application (Form SSA-16). This form asks about your health, work background, and reasons for applying. You’ll also need to complete a work history report (Form SSA-3369-BK), a third-party function report (Form SSA-3380-BK), and a work activity report (Form SSA-821-BK). Additional questionnaires and paperwork may be required based on your circumstances.

For more assistance with your application, refer to our guide on applying for Social Security Disability benefits.

The Function Report (Form SSA-3373) provides essential information about how an individual’s medical conditions affect their daily activities and ability to work. The information provided helps disability examiners assess the severity of the impairment and its impact on the individual’s ability to work. They want to know in your own words what your functional impairment is.

This is a critical document; subjectively, it is one of the most important documents in your claim because it allows you to explain yourself. They want to know how your illnesses limit your ability to work, which is a very open-ended question, allowing you to describe your condition and how it keeps you from doing full-time work activity in your own words. This is where you can go outside the box and provide the most information that may ultimately help your case.

The Third-Party Function Report

In some cases, a third party, such as a family member or caregiver, may be asked to complete a Function Report on behalf of the claimant. The third-party function report (Form SSA-3380-BK) offers a valuable perspective on the claimant’s daily activities and how their condition affects their ability to function independently.

It’s crucial to pick someone who truly understands your condition and its impact on your daily life. Selecting someone unfamiliar with your condition might not benefit your application. It could hurt your case if the SSA contacts them and they provide inaccurate information or give conflicting answers.

Most applicants find it more effective to strengthen their medical records and collaborate with a disability attorney to increase their chances of success. However, if the SSA or DDS requires you to complete the third-party function report, it’s best to do so promptly to prevent delays in processing your application. The questions on the third-party report closely resemble those on the standard Function Report, so the same advice applies.

Preparation is crucial before tackling the Social Security Function Report. This section will guide you through the essential steps to set yourself up for success.

Gathering Necessary Information

Start by collecting all the pertinent details required for Form SSA-3373. This includes personal information such as your full name, Social Security number, contact information, and relevant medical history. Make sure to have any medical records, doctor’s notes, or treatment plans available to reference while completing the form. Being organized from the outset will streamline the process and ensure accuracy.

Understanding the Questions Asked

Familiarize yourself with the questions on Form SSA-3373 to grasp the requested information. Take the time to read each question carefully and consider the specific details needed in your responses. If any queries are unclear, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from your attorney. Understanding the purpose behind each question will enable you to provide accurate and thorough answers.

Organizing Your Responses

To complete Form SSA-3373 efficiently, it’s beneficial to organize your responses in a structured manner. Consider creating an outline or draft to plan your answers before completing the form. Group related information together and ensure your responses align with the corresponding questions. Organizing your thoughts beforehand allows you to convey your information cohesively and comprehensively.

By following these preparation steps, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the process of filling out Form SSA-3373 confidently and accurately. Ready yourself with the necessary information, understand the questions, and organize your responses effectively to streamline completing the form.

Five Tips for Filling Out the Function Report

Are you wondering how to tackle the Function Report with ease? Explore these invaluable tips designed to simplify the process and boost your confidence.

Be Honest and Detailed: Accuracy and detail are crucial when completing the Social Security Function Report. Providing specific examples of how the medical condition affects various activities of daily living can strengthen the claimant’s case. It is essential to be thorough and honest in documenting the challenges faced, as this information influences the decision-making process for disability benefits.
Use Clear and Specific Examples: Using clear and specific examples to illustrate your limitations can strengthen your case. Instead of vague statements, provide concrete examples of how your condition affects your daily life. This can help the reviewer better understand the extent of your disability.
Review Your Responses: Before submitting the function report, take the time to review your responses. Check for any inconsistencies or missing information that could potentially raise red flags. Reviewing your answers can help ensure you’ve clearly and accurately portrayed your disability.
Keep a Copy for Your Records: It’s advisable to keep copies of all forms and documentation related to your Social Security disability claim. These copies can serve as a reference point in case of any discrepancies or if you need to provide additional information later in the process.
Seek Assistance When Needed: If you find the form daunting or need clarification, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether from a trusted friend or a legal representative, getting help to complete the function report can make the process smoother and more efficient.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Function Report

Here’s a detailed breakdown to guide you through each section smoothly. Most questions will only give you a few lines to record your answer, but I encourage you to go beyond the given lines and write a comprehensive essay about how your condition keeps you from working. Go on to the extra “Remarks” section provided at the end of the form, and, if necessary, add additional pages that go into detail about your medical condition and how it affects you.

Section A: General Information

Begin by filling in your personal details accurately. This includes your full name, Social Security number, contact information, and other identification details as requested on the form. Be sure to check for any specific instructions or requirements before proceeding.

Section B: Information About Your Illnesses, Injuries, or Conditions

This section has one question: “How do your illnesses, injuries, or conditions limit your ability to work?”

Provide detailed information about your disability. Describe your illnesses, injuries, or conditions, including how they impact your daily life and ability to work. Be honest and specific, including any treatments, medications, doctors you’ve seen, and the effects of your condition.

Section C: Information About Daily Activities

This section will ask about your daily routine and how your condition affects your ability to get dressed, cook, clean, or run errands. Provide examples of how your condition limits your activities. Be as descriptive as possible to represent your daily challenges accurately.

The first question in this section is, “Describe what you do from the time you wake up until going to bed.” This, again, is your opportunity to explain in explicit detail how your condition impacts your daily life and, therefore, how it impacts your ability to do work-like activities.

The next question is about preparing your meals. They ask if you can prepare your meals or if you need assistance. That’s because if you require assistance, if you cannot prepare meals, and if other people are doing these things for you, then it gives insight into the impact that your medical conditions are having on your life.

It goes into other things like house and yard work, getting around, shopping, using money, hobbies and interests, and social activities. The form will ask if you are interacting with others or attending church. This is because your social activities give insight into your ability to do work activities.

For example, if you’re very heavily invested in your church, you donate time and attend every Wednesday night, Sunday morning, and Sunday evening service. You help throughout the week with soup kitchens and things like that. However, when you add up all those activities, it almost seems like full-time work.

So, when asking about social activity, the SSA is trying to understand how your condition impacts you and whether it keeps you from doing full-time work activity.

Section D: Information About Abilities

This section focuses on your abilities and limitations concerning work-related activities. Describe your physical and mental abilities, any restrictions on your work capabilities, and how your condition affects your capacity to perform tasks typically required for employment. Give specific examples to help assessors understand your situation better.

The form also has check boxes you can check to indicate your ability to lift, squat, bend, stand, reach, etc. It also allows you to talk about what types of limitations you have in those areas. This section also asks whether you require an assistive device like crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, canes, etc.

Next, it asks about the medications you take and any side effects. The key here is they want to know about side effects that would impact one’s ability to do work activity. No one cares if you have cottonmouth after you take a medication. That might affect your ability to talk or communicate, but who cares if you’ve got a dry mouth?

What they want to know is if that medication knocks you sideways to the point that you can’t think straight and you’re talking in a slurred voice. A dry mouth is one thing, but you can’t work if you’re slurring your words and unable to communicate or if it makes you sleepy to the point where you pass out for two hours during the middle of the day. That’s the kind of thing the SSA wants to know.

Section E: Remarks

Use this section to add any information you couldn’t fit in the previous sections. You can use this space to explain further details about your condition, how it has progressed, any recent changes, or any other relevant information you believe is essential for the evaluation process.

Navigating Form SSA-3373 can be overwhelming, but providing accurate and detailed information is crucial for a successful Social Security Disability claim. Take your time to fill out each section thoughtfully, ensuring that your responses reflect your situation to the best of your ability.

What Happens Next?

The next step is to submit the form to the Social Security Administration and follow up on the processing of your claim. Here’s what you need to know about these crucial stages:

How to Submit Your Function Report

When submitting your Form SSA-3373, ensure that all sections are filled out accurately and comprehensively. Double-check for any missing information or errors that could delay the review process. Submit the form by mail or fax or by visiting your local Social Security office in person, but be sure to retain a copy for your records.

Following Up on Your Claim

Once the Social Security Administration receives your Form SSA-3373, they will review the information provided to assess your eligibility for benefits. This evaluation process may take some time, so patience is essential. The SSA will contact you for additional information if further clarification or documentation is needed.

How to Check the Status of Your Claim

After submitting your Form SSA-3373, it’s essential to stay proactive and follow up with the Social Security Administration to track the status of your report. You can contact the SSA via phone or visit their office to inquire about the processing timeline and whether additional information is required. Maintaining open communication can help ensure that your report is being reviewed promptly and accurately.

Remember, staying engaged in the submission and follow-up process of your Form SSA-3373 can help facilitate a smoother review process and potentially expedite the determination of your benefits eligibility. Stay proactive and informed throughout the entire process to ensure a successful outcome.

Navigating the complexities of a disability claim can be overwhelming on your own. There are no right or wrong answers, but there are bad ways to answer a question. Getting professional help can make a significant difference in your claim.

Enlisting the help of a Social Security Disability attorney can provide you with valuable support and guidance throughout the claims process. These professionals are well-versed in the intricacies of Social Security disability claims and can help you navigate the system with expertise.

Pensacola Social Security Disability attorney Nick Ortiz helps individuals nationwide receive the disability benefits they deserve. He has been representing disabled workers since 2005. If you are having trouble applying or need to appeal a denied claim for Social Security Disability benefits, contact us online or call (888) 321-8131.

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Table of Contents

How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits

Understanding the Social Security Function Report (Form SSA-3373)