Social Security Disability (SSD) applications have an average denial rate of 67 percent. Through our years of experience helping clients nationwide, it’s often common mistakes in SSD applications that cause denial.
You can be denied the benefits necessary to pay your mortgage, utilities and food bills because of simple errors that are easy to correct.
Contact us or call us to schedule a free consultation with an SSD lawyer today.
9 Common Mistakes on SSD Applications That Can Lead to Claim Denials
1. Inaccurate or Incomplete Information
SSD benefits are application-based. You must prove that you qualify for benefits, show the extent of your medical condition with extensive documentation and have sufficient work history. If you have any of the following, it can lead to denial:
- Conflicting information
- Inaccurate information
- Incomplete information
Gaps in your application can cause delays or denials. Before submitting your application, you want to go through it line-by-line to ensure it’s complete and accurate and includes all of the necessary documentation.
2. Applying for Benefits too Soon
SSD benefits require you to be impaired. If you can return to work in a week or two, your application will be denied. Your disability must last 12 months or more to qualify for benefits. Applying for benefits immediately after an accident often doesn’t allow the full extent of your condition to be seen.
Multiple doctor’s visits and potential therapy may be necessary to show that your condition meets the strict definition of disability by the Social Security Administration.
An SSA examiner may determine that, based on your current condition, you’ll improve and will not be able to receive benefits.
3. Lack of Medical Evidence
Going along with our last point, you must have sufficient medical evidence that you are disabled and will be for at least 12 months. Seek medical attention, get copies of your medical report and see specialists if it’s necessary to prove the validity of your claim.
Do not go to a single consultation and assume that it’s enough evidence of your condition and how long it may last.
4. Downplaying Your True Symptoms
One of the common mistakes in SSD applications is that applicants tend to downplay their symptoms. “I’m fine,” or “I’ll push through it,” mentalities often lead to applicants providing an inaccurate account of their struggles.
You need to be 100% honest and truthful when describing your true symptoms because the SSA will use your description when determining if you meet the requirements for benefits.
5. Inability to Describe Your Condition
Applicants must list all of their health conditions and how they impact their ability to work. Even if a condition seems minor, be sure to list it, along with how it impacts you. Difficulty to work may be tied to your physical limitations, but don’t make the mistake of not listing your:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Other mental conditions
If you can’t convey your condition accurately, work with a lawyer to help you fill out your application and ask you the right questions to describe your condition.
6. Missing Appointments
While your claim is under review, you may be asked to participate in examinations or discussions, which may include a consultative exam. Failing to attend or reschedule appointments may lead to your application being rejected due to lack of documentation.
If you cannot attend an appointment, hearing or meeting, contact the SSA immediately to try to reschedule.
7. Not Following Your Doctor’s Guidelines
One of the most common mistakes in SSD applications is failing to get appropriate medical treatment.
Medical documentation will have a significant impact on the outcome of your claim. Along with evidence of the condition itself, you must also show how your impairment has progressed, its effect on your ability to work and the treatments you have received.
If you fail to follow your doctor’s guidelines for treatment, your application may be considered incomplete. The SSA may request a consultative exam to assess your current medical condition.
To avoid this mistake, make sure that you follow your doctor’s recommendations and seek appropriate medical care for your condition.
8. Choosing the Wrong Disability Program
There are two main types of disability programs available through the SSA:
Social Security Income (SSI), which is meant for those with limited resources and work history.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which requires applicants to meet work credit requirements in addition to other criteria.
You may qualify for one or both programs. However, it’s important to ensure that you’re applying for the right program to avoid being denied because you don’t meet the basic qualifications.
An experienced SSD lawyer can help you understand your eligibility and what each program has to offer.
9. Appealing a Decision Without a Lawyer
More than half of initial SSD applications are denied, but applicants have the right to appeal this decision. Many applicants make the mistake of going through the appeals process without legal representation.
Although there are four levels of appeals, the process becomes increasingly more complex over time, and the rate of approval dwindles. For example, only about 15% of reconsideration requests are approved, and this is just the first level of appeals.
If your SSD application has been denied and you wish to appeal the decision, you can avoid this common mistake simply by hiring a lawyer to help you navigate the appeals process.
Why It’s Important to Seek Legal Support When Applying for SSD
Applying for SSD can be a complicated process, and it can be especially overwhelming when you’re still recovering from an injury. To increase your odds of approval, it’s important to seek legal support from an experienced lawyer who understands the system and its complexities.
A lawyer can help you avoid the most common mistakes in SSD applications, ensure your application is complete and guide you through the appeals process if necessary.
The compassionate and experienced lawyers at Disability.Law can assist you through every step of the SSD application process, from filing your initial claim to appealing an unfavorable decision.
We are committed to helping clients across the nation seek the financial help they deserve. With more than 400 Google reviews, we are proud to be a top-rated firm and deliver compassionate legal support that knows no bounds.
If you’re considering applying for SSD benefits, contact or call us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced disability lawyer.