Are you or someone you know dealing with a denied Social Security Disability (SSD) claim? You are not alone. The sad truth is that many legitimate disability claims get denied by the Social Security Administration (SSA) every day.
In fact, approximately 65% of initial SSD claims get rejected. This can be a frustrating and overwhelming experience for those who are unable to work due to a disability.
But why do so many SSD claims get denied? In this post, I will discuss the top reasons why SSD claims get denied and what steps you can take to avoid having your claim denied. Here are the top reasons:
Insufficient Medical Evidence
One of the most common reasons for an SSD claim denial is a lack of sufficient medical evidence. The SSA requires detailed documentation from medical professionals to prove that your disability prevents you from working. This includes your medical records, test results, and notes from your doctors.
To avoid this issue, it is important to regularly visit your doctors and specialists and keep detailed records of all of your medical treatment. Make sure to inform them that you are applying for SSD and ask them to provide supporting documentation for your claim.
Failure to Follow Treatment Plans
In addition to providing detailed medical documentation, it is important to follow any treatment plans prescribed by your doctors. This can include medication regimens, physical therapy sessions, and regular check-ups.
Failure to comply with these treatment plans could negatively impact your SSD claim. The Social Security Administration may view your non-compliance as a lack of effort to improve your condition and, therefore, deny your claim. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and show that you are actively trying to improve your condition.
Earning Too Much Income
Receiving income above a certain limit can also affect your eligibility for SSD benefits. In 2024, the income limit for Social Security Disability is $1,310 per month. If you are earning above this limit, your SSD benefits may be reduced or eliminated altogether.
It is important to accurately report your income to the Social Security Administration. Not taking action could lead to penalties or even criminal charges. Make sure that any additional income from sources such as rental properties or investments must also be reported.
Lack of Cooperation With the SSA
Another common reason why SSD claims may be denied is a lack of cooperation with the Social Security Administration. This can include not attending medical appointments or failing to provide necessary documentation for your claim.
It is important to remember that the SSA will require evidence and information to process your claim. This may include medical records, employment history, and other relevant documents. Failure to provide this information can result in a denial of your claim. It is crucial to stay organized and keep track of all necessary documents to ensure a smooth claims process.
Short-Term or Non-Severe Condition Claims
For short-term or non-severe conditions, the SSA has specific guidelines for determining disability. These conditions are evaluated differently than long-term or permanent disabilities. The SSA considers a non-severe condition as one that affects an individual’s ability to work, but only for a short period. This could include injuries from accidents or illnesses that require hospitalization.
To qualify for disability benefits for a short-term or non-severe condition, the following criteria must be met:
- The condition must prevent you from performing your regular job duties
- The condition must last for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death
- You must not be able to perform any other type of work due to your condition
In some cases, individuals may be able to receive short-term disability benefits through their employer’s insurance plan. This type of coverage typically lasts for a few months and provides a portion of the person’s regular salary.
Previous Denial Without Appeal
If you have previously applied for disability benefits and were denied, it may be possible to appeal the decision. Appealing a denial can be a lengthy and complicated process, but if you believe that your condition meets the criteria for disability, it may be worth pursuing.
It is not uncommon for initial disability claims to be denied, so do not be discouraged if this happens to you. Many people are successful in receiving benefits after appealing their denial with the help of an attorney.
To appeal a previous denial, you will need to gather any additional medical evidence that supports your claim. This could include updated test results, doctor’s notes, or letters from specialists who have treated your condition. It is important to address any concerns or issues raised in the original denial letter in your appeal.
Steps to avoid an SSDI denial
There are several steps you can take to help prevent your claim from being denied. These include:
Providing thorough and accurate information: Make sure to fill out all forms completely and accurately, including any required medical information. This will help avoid delays or mistakes that could lead to a denial.
Seeking medical treatment: If you have a medical condition, it is important to seek treatment from a doctor regularly. This will provide evidence of the severity and impact of your condition on your daily life.
Keeping records: Keep copies of all documents related to your disability claim, including medical records, doctor’s notes, and any communication with the Social Security Administration (SSA). This will be helpful in case your claim is denied and you need to appeal the decision.
Understanding the appeals process: If your disability claim is denied, it’s important to understand the appeals process and deadlines for filing an appeal. You may want to consider hiring a disability lawyer to help with this process.
Being prepared for a hearing: If you need to attend a hearing for your disability claim, make sure you are well-prepared. This may include gathering additional evidence or obtaining statements from doctors who can support your claim.
Being patient: The disability claims process can be lengthy and frustrating, but it’s important to remain patient and persistent. Make sure that many claims are initially denied but approved on appeal.
Final Thought
Top reasons why SSD claims get denied can vary from case to case, but the most common factors are lack of evidence and insufficient documentation. Claimants must gather all necessary medical records, work history, and other relevant information to support their disability claim.
Seeking the help of a qualified SSD attorney or advocate can greatly increase the chances of success. Make sure to remain patient and persistent, as many claims are initially denied but ultimately approved on appeal. Ultimately, the most important factor of a successful disability claim is having a strong case with solid evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the SSD process take?
The length of time for a disability claim to be processed can vary depending on individual circumstances. In general, it can take anywhere from 3 months to over a year for a decision to be reached.
Can I keep working while waiting for my disability claim to be approved?
It is possible to work while your disability claim is being processed. But there are limitations on the amount of income you can earn. If you make more than a certain amount, it may affect your eligibility for benefits.
Can I apply for SSD if I have already been denied in the past?
Yes, you can reapply for SSD even if you have been denied in the past. However, it’s important to address any issues that led to your initial denial and provide strong evidence to support your case.
Is hiring a lawyer necessary for my disability claim?
While it is not required to hire a lawyer for your disability claim, it may be beneficial to do so. A lawyer can provide legal expertise and guidance throughout the application process, increasing your chances of success.
They can also help gather necessary evidence and represent you in court if needed. It is important to research and choose a reputable lawyer who specializes in disability cases.
What should I consider when hiring a lawyer for my disability claim?
First, make sure the lawyer has experience and success with disability cases similar to yours. You can check out reviews online or even ask for reviews from past clients.
Additionally, consider the cost of hiring a lawyer and if it fits within your budget. A lot of lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case.