I Know I Cannot Work – Why was My Disability Claim Denied?
You were waiting a long time to find out if your disability claim was approved all to find out that it was denied. You may feel angry, confused, betrayed, and worried. You know you have a genuine disability and cannot work and earn a wage, so why was your claim denied? Keep in mind that a claim denial isn’t a denial of your disabled status but a denial for you to receive benefits. You are not alone as the Social Security Administration reports that more than two-thirds of initial disability applications are denied. When a first appeal is made, 87 percent of those receive a denial.
Reasons for SSDI Denials
Your disability application can be denied for several reasons. No two claims are the same, and their denial reasons can differ as well. If your claim was denied, it might have received a denial for one of the following reasons:
Lack of Solid Medical Evidence
Your medical records must provide proof that your disability interferes with your ability to do your job. Your doctor must be sure to thoroughly document your conditions and how they impact your work abilities. The records kept by your primary care physician are fundamental in proving your claim. If your doctor has written you notes excusing you from work or requiring a modified work schedule, this should be included in your medical records.
Previous Denials
It is a myth that filing a new disability claim will have a better chance of approval than appealing a denied one. In fact, your new claim could be denied based on the mere fact that the person reviewing your claim realizes that you were previously denied benefits in the past. Instead of filing a new claim, it is essential that you go through the formal process of an appeal.
Your Income
If you are applying for SSI benefits, your income can impact your claim. Some SSI applicants can work part-time and still earn money during the process. If you are earning more than $910 per month when you apply, your claim could get denied.
Failing to Adhere to Treatment Plans
It is imperative that you follow any treatments prescribed by your doctor. If you do not, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will deny your claim. By not adhering to your doctor’s recommendations, the examiner is not able to determine if your physical condition prevents you from working or not.
Failure to Cooperate with the SSA
Whether you have issues with the SSA in general or over your claim, put that aside and cooperate with them for the sake of your claim. During the application process, you must comply with their requests. If they ask for specific documentation or that you complete a medical exam, follow through in a timely manner. Not doing so will jeopardize your claim.
What You Can Do
The process of applying for or appealing a disability insurance claim can be complicated and confusing. With so much at stake, many claimants prefer to hire an OC social security disability attorney from the very beginning of the process. Having legal representation and knowledgeable guidance can help increase your claim’s chances of approval.