The process of applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) benefits can be confusing and intimidating, especially for individuals who have no prior experience dealing with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Denial is a common fact of the application process that SSD benefit seekers must deal with. Since nearly 7 out of 10 applicants are denied the first time they apply for benefits, you can prepare yourself for next steps if your claim is denied by reviewing the process for appeal.
Preparing for Disability Denial
A Social Security Disability Insurance attorney will be a big help whether you are applying for the first time or attempting an appeal of a negative decision. When you sit down to talk with an experienced lawyer, you’ll gain valuable insight into how the system works and the steps needed to successfully apply and win benefits. Your lawyer can give you a step-by-step assessment of the appeals process and inform you of the many reasons why claims are denied routinely by the SSA.
Appealing a Denial
Maybe you rushed to get your application in so as to receive benefits as soon as possible, or overlooked a step in the submittal instructions. In many cases, a simple administrative error or missing information is to blame for a denied application. Whatever the reason, the good news is that you have several chances to appeal a denial after the initial application.
Achieving a benefits approval can take years, especially if you attempt appeals without guidance from an advocate who has your best interests in mind. Your SSD lawyer can work with you to check that your paperwork is accurate and complete, and ensure your disability is clearly communicated and properly supported by medical documentation. It is also your attorney’s job to make sure your appeals are submitted in the most efficient and comprehensive manner.
Most SSD attorneys only collect legal fees once SSD benefits are approved, so you don’t have to worry about sacrificing valuable income upfront. Be sure to choose a local SSD lawyer who can give you focused attention and deliver personalized legal service to optimize your chances at winning an appeal.
From thorough interviews to solid medical documentation, every step must be completed with precision. To talk to an attorney about your recent SSD denial and move forward with an appeal, please search our legal directory.
Please explore our website and if you have questions or need further assistance, please e-mail the SSD Law Resource Center by completing the form to the right. We are here to help.