SSD Appeals: Why Your SSD Claim May Have Been Denied

couple reviewing SSD claim If you’ve applied for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits but were denied, you may be feeling frustrated or confused. But according to the Social Security Administration (SSA), you’re not alone—over half of all applicants are denied SSD benefits the very first time they apply.

However, once you’ve been denied, you must go through an appeals process. This process can complicate an already confusing situation, so it’s important to understand some common reasons why claims are often denied. This will help you avoid making the same mistakes during the appeals process and can greatly improve your chances of being approved for SSD benefits.

Some common reasons for SSD claim denial include the following:

The SSA is Unable to Reach You. Oftentimes, in order to determine your SSD eligibility, the SSA will need to contact you with further questions or to set up an exam with an SSA-approved physician. However, if the SSA can’t get in touch with you because of a misprinted or out-of-date address or phone number, your claim will most likely be denied.

You’re Younger Than 50 Years of Age. Although there is no minimum age to qualify for SSD benefits, the SSA feels people under the age of 50 are almost always capable of working to some degree. However, it’s not impossible to receive benefits if you are under the age of 50, but it will require significant medical evidence to support your claim.

You’re Not Cooperative With the SSA. If you haven’t honored the SSA’s request for additional information, such as medical records or an exam with an SSA-approved doctor, you’re putting yourself at risk for being denied. Without further documentation of your disability, the SSA can’t adequately decide if you qualify for SSD benefits.

There’s Insufficient Medical Evidence. One of the most important factors regarding your SSD claim is a significant amount of medical evidence supporting your disability. If your application lacks sufficient medical records, you claim may be denied.

Understanding these common mistakes can help you build a stronger claim that’s able to withstand the scrutiny of the SSA. However, if you claim is denied, you should contact a knowledgeable Social Security Disability lawyer at Schmidt Kramer for guidance through the appeals process.

Call Schmidt Kramer at (717) 888-8888 or fill out our FREE Case Evaluation Form.

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Was Your SSD Claim Denied? This May be Why

Some common reasons for SSD claim denial include the following: