Understanding SSDI Denials

Having a disability is no fun. You likely have limitations in your daily life. You may be unable to work. On top of that, you have to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

The application process is time-consuming. You’ll need a lot of documentation to prove your case. On top of that, sending in your application is not the end of the process. More than likely, your claim will be denied, forcing you to invest more time into the process.

SSDI denials are common, even for those who seem to have clear-cut cases. They may have loads of documentation proving a disability, but still get denial after denial. One woman applied for SSDI for her 4-year-old son, who has autism and epilepsy. She has been denied four times so far.

Her son is nonverbal. He attends occupational and speech therapy and receives transportation assistance for appointments. He even has a Medicaid-sponsored nurse. Still, the boy’s claim has not been approved. She was finally told that her family made too much money, but details have been lacking. Trying to get clarification on denials and how to qualify has been frustrating. Calling the Social Security Administration (SSA) hasn’t been helpful due to  lengthy hold times, lack of appointment availability, and ignored messages..

Unfortunately, this is a common situation. Between 2010 and 2019, just 31% of SSDI claims were approved by the SSA.

Reasons for Denials

The SSA spells out clear requirements for working credits needed and the monthly income limit for adults applying for SSDI benefits on behalf of a child. However, the SSDI criteria for eligible disabilities can be vague.

Some impairments, such as chronic heart failure, have published eligibility metrics, but conditions that vary in their symptoms and severity leave applicants to prove they are extremely limited in certain abilities.

Denials are becoming more and more common. Between 1999 and 2021, the SSA increased the SSDI denial rate for applicants who were deemed ineligible for benefits.

Part of the problem is that eligibility doesn’t equal approval. Applicants must prove they meet the criteria for being disabled. SSDI applicants must prove their impairments are so severe that their ability to work is severely impacted. The SSA requires extensive medical evidence, such as lab results, treatment history, and psychological records. The issue is that medical conditions affect each person differently, and applicants have to thoroughly explain how their quality of life and ability to work is affected by their disability.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

SSDI benefits are supposed to be available for those who are disabled, but getting them is not an easy task. Denials are uncommon, unfortunately.

A White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon can assess your case and help improve your chances of an approval. To schedule a free consultation, call (914) 228-1770 or fill out the online form.

Source:

nerdwallet.com/article/investing/social-security/ssdi-denials-what-to-do