Consultative Exam Tips: How to Avoid Hurting Your SSDI Case
TL;DR: A consultative exam (CE) is a brief evaluation by an SSA-contracted doctor. Do attend, do be honest about your limitations, do describe your worst days, do not exaggerate, do not minimize, and do not try to "prove" you are disabled through dramatic behavior. The CE doctor writes a report that goes in your file and can help or hurt your case. Be truthful and specific. Describe what you cannot do and what happens when you try.
A consultative exam is one of the most impactful 15 to 20 minutes of your SSDI case. The CE doctor's report carries significant weight with the disability examiner and, if your case reaches a hearing, with the ALJ. Here is how to handle it.
Before the Exam
- Do not miss it. Failing to attend a CE can result in immediate denial. If you cannot make it, call the SSA before the appointment to reschedule.
- Do not bring medical records. The CE doctor is not there to review your history. They are doing their own examination.
- Arrive on time. Late arrival may shorten an already brief exam.
During the Exam
Do
- Be honest about your symptoms and limitations
- Describe your worst days, not just today
- Use specific numbers: "I can sit for about 15 minutes before needing to shift position"
- Mention medication side effects
- Describe activities you have stopped doing because of your condition
- Tell the doctor if something hurts during the exam
Do not
- Exaggerate or dramatize symptoms
- Minimize symptoms out of pride
- Refuse to attempt exam activities (do what you can, then explain why you cannot do more)
- Be confrontational with the doctor
- Give one-word answers (elaborate on how limitations affect daily life)
After the Exam
Request a copy of the CE report from the SSA. If it is inaccurate, your treating physician can write a response addressing the specific findings. See our CE denial guide and appealing after a bad CE.
Prepare for Your CE
ClaimPath's Appeal Pack ($49) includes CE preparation tips tailored to your conditions, so you know what to expect and how to present your limitations accurately.
Start your appeal preparation now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for consultative exam tips: how to avoid hurting your ssdi case?
TL;DR: A consultative exam (CE) is a brief evaluation by an SSA-contracted doctor. Do attend, do be honest about your limitations, do describe your worst days, do not exaggerate, do not minimize, and do not try to "prove" you are disabled through dramatic behavior. The CE doctor writes a report that goes in your file and can help or hurt your case.
What should I know about after the exam?
Request a copy of the CE report from the SSA. If it is inaccurate, your treating physician can write a response addressing the specific findings. See our CE denial guide and appealing after a bad CE.
What should I know about prepare for your ce?
ClaimPath's Appeal Pack ($49) includes CE preparation tips tailored to your conditions, so you know what to expect and how to present your limitations accurately.