Why Are Social Security Disability Claims Denied?

Nobody plans on being disabled, but things happen. People get injured at work. Some are involved in serious car accidents. A person may suffer a fall at home, breaking their arm or injuring their back or neck.

Accidents happen, and while many people heal from their injuries, some sustain long-term or even permanent injuries. These injuries can make it difficult for someone to perform their work duties. If a person cannot do their job or a similar job, then they may be able to receive Social Security Disability benefits.

Managed by the Social Security Administration, Social Security Disability benefits are a form of income for those who can no longer work. Many people apply for these benefits, but few are approved. In 2017, 513,000 applications were denied.

Reasons for Denial

Benefits can be denied for a variety of reasons. The top reason why claims are denied is because the person can do other types of work. This resulted in more than 40% of denied claims. What this means is that just because you can no longer do your job does not mean that you cannot do other types of work. For example, if you break your dominant arm and can no longer type, you most likely can still do other office duties.

In nearly 24% of cases, the impairment was not severe enough. Having an arm or leg amputated is severe. So is paralysis or blindness. Having back pain typically is not. While it may be uncomfortable, it can be alleviated with pain medications.

In just under 10% of cases, the claims were denied because the person could do their previous work. It may seem as though you may not be able to perform your previous duties, but the Social Security Administration will gather information about your injury or illness from the doctor. Your doctor knows your abilities, and just because you have a chronic illness like diabetes or heart disease does not mean you cannot work.

In 5% of cases, the claims were denied because the disability was not anticipated to last longer than 12 months. That is the main criterion for SSDI benefits. If you have a short-term disability, there are other options available. SSDI benefits are for those who are disabled permanently or for at least one year.

In 21% of cases, the claims were denied due to incomplete claims and insufficient medical evidence. If you want to get approved for benefits, make sure to thoroughly complete your application. Don’t neglect any of the sections. Don’t forget evidence from your doctor; that’s one of the most important steps. If you have questions about the process, get legal help.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

If you have been seriously injured and are considering disability benefits, be aware that the process is not easy. Many people are denied the first time around.

Make sure you get the Social Security Disability benefits you deserve. Let White Plains Social Security disability lawyer Michael Lawrence Varon guide you through the process. To schedule a free consultation, call our office 914-294-2145.

Resource:

globenewswire.com/news-release/2020/04/17/2018035/0/en/Allsup-Explains-Reasons-for-Social-Security-Disability-Claim-Denials.html

https://www.nycompensationlaw.com/veterans-benefits-protected-during-coronavirus-outbreak/