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Denied Disability Benefits and Unable to Work: What Steps to Take Next?

The application process for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is challenging, lengthy, and has a high rejection rate. Only 35% of original submissions were accepted in 2022. The approval rate for reconsideration was 13%, while the approval rate for the court hearing, the last stage of the appeal, was 54%.

Time spent on appeal varies. Reconsideration takes less time than a hearing request, and a higher authority review takes even longer than a hearing request. Time is of the essence if you are dealing with impairments and unemployment, regardless of what stage you are in the disability application process.

 

Steps To Take If Your Social Security Disability Application Is Denied

Receiving approval for a disability application necessitates a robust case supported by substantial evidence and meeting eligibility requirements. Seeking expert help might help you save time and help you acquire the much-needed financial support if you’re unsure about the procedure.

A disability claim refusal can be devastating for someone who depends on monthly assistance. But this rejection shouldn’t be an excuse for giving up. When work is no longer an option, you are entitled to SSDI payments because you pay into the social security system. There is a four-level administrative appeals process available following the refusal of a social security disability claim. This procedure gives applicants more chances to demonstrate their right to benefits and verifiable impairment. However, you should first determine the reason your application was initially rejected before appealing the denial.

GETTING TO THE BOTTOM OF YOUR DENIED DISABILITY CLAIM

You’ll get a “Notice of Denial” letter from Social Security if your claim is rejected. Without legal assistance, these letters could be challenging to understand. The letter outlines the reasons your claim was rejected. If you’re unsure, speak with a legal professional.

The “Notice of Denial” outlines your medical condition, any potential disabilities, and the reasoning behind the decision. Medical conditions and your “residual functional capacity” (RFC) may be mentioned in some notices.

Being denied disability doesn’t automatically imply you’re not disabled.

SSA may deny your claim for numerous reasons, however in our experience most cases are denied due to below appended common reasons.

These common reasons include:

  •  Insufficient Medical Proof – Failure to provide clear diagnosis and show how the medical condition or impairment, affects daily life and your work abilities.
  • Higher Earnings: These benefits are for people who can’t work or do anything else. Your claim will be rejected if your monthly income exceeds $1350 ($2260 for blind people).
  • Not following Medical Treatment: If you receive treatment that could improve your condition but don’t adhere to it, your claim could be rejected. The SSA needs documentation of appropriate care and adherence to medical instructions.
  • Multiple Applications, Ignoring Process: Some people file additional applications rather than appealing a decision, running the danger of an immediate denial for failing to adhere to SSA guidelines.
  • Limited Work History for SSDI: Simply satisfying the SSA’s disability requirements is insufficient. Having sufficient recent “work credits” is also necessary for qualification.
 
Now that you know or have a reasonable idea why your application is denied, you should also be considerate of the time limit assigned by SSA to apply for reconsideration after your initial claim is denied.

When to appeal?

Within 60 days of the day you received Social Security’s refusal notification, submit your written request. Send SSA a “good cause” letter outlining the delay if your hearing request will be received after the deadline.

Applicants can appeal through four levels with Social Security if they are refused disability payments.

Reconsideration:

Reconsideration gives you the opportunity to submit additional medical data and have your application reviewed by a different member of the DDS staff (Disability Determination Service). When asking for a reconsideration, strengthen your earlier application with additional details. It’s critical to pinpoint any problems with your first claim, such as deficiencies or missing medical records.

Hearing with a judge:

after your initial reconsideration is turned down, contact the office of hearing operations (OHA) to schedule a hearing with an administrative law judge. Within 60 days of receiving the reconsideration denial notification, this request must be submitted. The scheduling of the hearing can take up to a year. You have the option of a video or in-person hearing.

Review of hearing decision

The third stage is to appeal a decision to a board for review. They may send for further consideration and/or confirm or deny review. This is the final SSA internal appeal, which calls for compelling legal support. For the best chances of approval, you must hire a disability representative.

File federal district court action

This is the final stage of the appeal process, where a request is made to the judge of a federal court to reconsider earlier case decisions. It is uncommon for federal judges to reverse Social Security Administration rulings or come to a different result. As a result, winning an appeal in federal court is extremely difficult. Instead of wasting time and resources waiting for approval on your own, we advise hiring a legal representation like SSDI benefits group to increase your chances of success right now.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

Need help
applying?

The biggest mistake individuals make is thinking it’s a good idea to handle SSDI claims themselves. Qualifying SSDI is complicated and shouldn’t be brushed off.

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Denied?

 It’s not easy to get approved for SSDI benefits, Around 65% of first SSDI applications are turned down. We Have helped many applicants qualify who were previously denied.

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Eligible?

If you are unable to work due to injury or illness, SSDI might be the appropriate option for you. Begin your free evaluation now to determine if you qualify!