Just to be clear SS doesn't ever request a FCE, but when you have a diagnosis that most ALJs will have very little experience with, evidence of specific functional limitations can be a major asset--at least that was my experience.

Some doctors will fill out RFC forms without a FCE, but it certainly helps with your documentation.

http://www.disabilitysecrets.com/rfc...statement.html

In regards to your AOD, you certainly don't need to change it to reflect receiving a diagnosis. I'm not sure how familiar you are with the Grid Rules, if at all? Basically there are three ways to be approved. 1)Meet an Impaired Listing 2)The 5 step process 3)Via the Grid Rules. It can be much easier qualifying for the Grid Rules at 50 (and easier still at 55) than going through the 5 step process (which is how you were just denied.)

So long as you can prove your skills are not transferable, you no longer have the burden to prove you can't perform SGA at any job, so long as your AOD reflects your 50th bday (or possibly 6 months before your 50th bday at an ALJs discretion.)
http://www.disabilitysecrets.com/top...grid-rules-age

In my personal opinion, an ALJ is going to want to see extensive medical documentation AFTER you've been diagnosed. (By the time you appeal and hopefully receive a remand to the ALJ, you'll have time to do just that.)

You might have to decide if the fight for extra backpay is worth further delaying approval. I'm just trying to give you fair warning now.

What your doctor said to you in person will not necessarily match what is in his or her notes, as I'm sure you know. With your background you're in a much better position to self advocate than most patients.

Good luck.