Surprisingly, only around 30% of people who apply for Social Security Disability benefits are approved the first time they apply – although many more of these people should qualify. If you are among the 60% who have been denied, or you want to be better prepared before you file the first time, please read on.
1. You Earn too Much Money
If you earn more than $1,220, which is the “substantial gainful activity” level, your application will not be considered by The Social Security Administration (SSA). You are still allowed to work a little even if you are applying for disability, but you cannot make more than $1,220 per month as of 2019. This limitation does not apply to any income you make from investments, as they are only evaluating if you are able to continue working at a gainful activity level.
2. Failure to Provide Enough Medical Proof
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you need to provide medical records that prove you are unable to work due to your disability. If your primary physician fails to note in your medical records that your injury or disability is keeping you from being able to work, your claim will likely be denied.
It is particularly important to explain to your doctor how your injury or disability is preventing you from doing your job. It’s especially helpful to have notes from your doctor expressing your inability to go to work or requesting that you be placed on a modified schedule.
The SSA is looking for a medical history from your doctor(s) discussing your disability/pain as well as a real effort on your part to try various treatments and medications. They are also looking for evidence that despite your best efforts you can no longer work due to your disability.
Remember, the SSA will need access to your medical records. If you fail to grant this access, your claim will be denied.
3. Make Sure to Follow Doctors’ Orders
Another reason your claim might be denied is that you are not complying with your physician’s suggested treatments or prescribed medications. In addition to following medical recommendations, you should see a specialist that deals with your condition – they want to see evidence that you are doing all you can to recover and return to work.
4. Unresponsiveness
There is a good chance your claim will be denied if the SSA can’t get ahold of you. When they want to discuss your case, they need to be able to reach you. If you move and don’t let them know, your claim will be denied. If you are working with an attorney, you don’t need to be in contact with the SSA directly, but it’s important to keep up regular communication with your lawyer.
5. Filing a Second Time
If you have been denied Social Security Disability benefits, don’t make the mistake of filing a new claim yourself. Once you’ve been denied, they likely will deny your claim the second time for the same reasons. You’ll have the best probability of receiving your disability benefits if you hire a qualified Social Security Disability lawyer to walk you through the process and make sure you file the correct paperwork.
Apply for SSI in Halifax
When you’re ready to apply, or re-apply, for SSD, SSDI, or SSI in Halifax, reach out to our compassionate and skilled disability attorneys at Cunningham Law Group. Call today.