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Understanding the reasons why disability claims are denied

On Behalf of | Nov 28, 2018 | Social Security Disability |

Whether you suffer from a progressive condition or the sudden onset of a painful disease, you likely tried to work as long as possible so you could support yourself. However, medical bills and lost days at work eventually caused you to make the difficult choice to leave the workforce and apply for Social Security Disability Insurance.

After completing the lengthy application process, you may have been shocked and disappointed to learn the Social Security Administration rejected your claim. You now have many concerns about your future and your ability to continue with your current quality of life. However, you may find it encouraging to know that an initial rejection of your claim for SSDI may not be the end of the story.

Why did the SSA deny your claim?

If the SSA denied your initial claim for disability benefits, you are not alone. In fact, the SSA rejects nearly 70 percent of the initial claims it receives. The claims review process is stringent and demanding because of the high rate of fraud involving Social Security benefits. If the agency denied your claim, you may be able to strengthen your application for the appeals process. However, it is important to understand the most common reasons why the SSA denies claims for disability:

  • Your condition does not prevent you from earning money above the limits the SSA has set for disability benefits.
  • Your condition does not meet the guidelines for a disability; for example, it will not last at least one year.
  • Your disabling condition is the result of current or past drug or alcohol abuse.
  • Your disabling condition is the result of injuries suffered while you committed a felony or while you were incarcerated for a felony conviction.
  • You failed to make your medical records available to SSA investigators.
  • You did not keep your appointments for interviews or examinations the SSA set for you.
  • You did not follow medical advice or treatment plans outlined by your physician to treat your condition, or you did not supply adequate documentation of your medical treatment.

You may be able to launch a successful appeal if medical documentation is the reason for your denial or if you have proof that you have a valid reason for missing appointments with the SSA. In any case, it may be worth it to allow a Texas attorney to review your application and rejection and to advise you on the most appropriate course of action for the future.