Top Reasons Why Disability Claims Are Denied
Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran
The disability benefits application process can be long and stressful. On top of learning to live with chronic pain, limited mobility, a lower hearing level, or visual loss, you have to navigate a complicated legal system. Receiving a denial can be devastating if you and your family are relying on that money to survive.
If you know the top reasons why disability claims are denied, it’s easier to avoid them. Learning about these pitfalls and working with a dedicated, experienced attorney can help you navigate the disability claims process successfully.
Am I Eligible for a Disability Claim?
There are multiple organizations through which you can submit a disability benefits claim. Each one has specific qualification requirements. If you’re unsure, the SSA has an online questionnaire that can help you determine if you should proceed with your application.
Social Security Administration (SSA)
The SSA is a federal organization. You may only apply for social security disability benefits if you have paid enough into social security disability insurance during your career.
If you are unable to work either temporarily or permanently due to an illness or an injury, you might be eligible to receive disability. The Social Security Administration (SSA)’s Listing of Impairments must include your disease or disability.
The list covers a wide range of ailments, but there are other potential causes for disability. If your reason is not listed, you might still be eligible but should contact a disability attorney for more information.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides income to aged, blind, or otherwise disabled low-income people. Even if you have not paid into social security, you might be eligible to receive SSI. The eligibility requirements for SSI include not only proof of disability, but also proof of low income. Under 18s can also apply.
Michigan State Disability Assistance
SDA is another form of assistance available to Michigan residents. Suppose you already receive some disability-related benefits, live in special housing, or have been certified as unable to work for at least 90 days by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. In that case, you are eligible to apply for SDA.
Why are Claims Denied?
Even with an official diagnosis, there are other factors at play such as the ability to work or a lack of medical evidence. To receive disability, you must be unable to work. If you are applying for permanent disability, you must be able to prove your inability to work long-term.
Ability to Work
A crucial factor for SSDI applicants is an inability to work. Although your inability to work is apparent to you, your medical records must support your claim. If you are still working and earning an average of over $1,260 per month, your application will likely be denied.
Even if you are unable to continue your previous employment, you must prove a complete inability to work, even in other professions. In 2015, the SSA denied 40% of disability claims across the country because they determined the applicant was able to do different types of work.
Medical Evidence
A lack of medical evidence can derail your application for SSDI benefits. Even during the application process, continue all prescribed medical treatment.
If you don’t attend your appointments or are uncooperative while there, your doctor can note a failure to cooperate in your record.
Appeals Process
It is possible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) even if you receive a denial for your first application. Many claims are denied the first time around. Instead of tackling the appeals process on your own, consider working with a disability lawyer.
Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C., has many years of experience working with the SSDI Benefits system, both with the initial application and the appeals process. If you believe you’re entitled to disability benefits, call 866-MICH-LAW to set up your confidential free consultation, to discuss your case.
Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.