If you have suffered from a serious injury or medical condition that has left you permanently disabled, you realize your life has drastically changed. You can no longer carry out your normal everyday tasks. You are unable to work and supporting yourself and your family may be a challenge. Fortunately, disabled Americans can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or (SSI) Supplemental Security Income benefits. Unfortunately, most initial applications for social security disability benefits are denied, even if you deserve them.
If your first application was denied, all is not lost. You can file an appeal. However, to maximize your chances of being approved for these crucial benefits, it’s best to consult with an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer. The application for disability benefits is tedious and even minor mistakes can hurt your chances of being approved.
Why are Social Security Disability Benefits Denied?
In the United States, about 65% of applications are denied at the initial stage. Most of the applications that are denied are not fraudulent. Instead, many are denied because of small errors or due to efforts to reduce fraud. The process of application approval is subjected to in-depth scrutiny by state-run DDS (Disability Determination Services) along with the Social Security Administration. These rigorous screening processes are meant to keep away fraudsters who file false claims. However, these processes also mean legitimate applicants must be very meticulous when it comes to filling out and sending in their applications.
The specific reasons your application was denied will vary. But the bottom line is that if your application didn’t get approved, you need to consult with a social security disability lawyer to help determine your eligibility and ensure your application is filled in correctly.
How Can a Social Security Disability Benefits Lawyer Help?
A Social Security disability attorney will start by reviewing your denial letter. This will help him or her determine why you were not awarded your benefits. After that, your attorney will use his legal knowledge to explain these reasons to you and what you need to do to successfully file for benefits. Some specific things your attorney will work to do include;
- Proving that your current condition falls under a disability listed in the SSA handbook
- Proving that you can no longer work
By proving that your disability meets the conditions listed above, your application will have a significantly higher chance of success. Your attorney will establish whether your condition is linked to a disability listed by the SSA. If so, the lawyer will then gather evidence that shows the disability means you can no longer work. Don’t let stress and depression overcome you. Turn to a skilled lawyer who can handle the process on your behalf.
