If you're struggling with a health condition or injury that's left you unable to work, you might be thinking about applying for Social Security disability benefits. If so, you probably already understand that there are medical qualifications for disability approval. However, what you may not realize is that there are many other reasons for denial on a Social Security disability claim beyond just your medical condition. Here's a look at some of the things to know about Social Security disability claim denial reasons beyond questions about your medical status.
Insufficient Work History
One of the things that many people don't realize is that in order for you to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must have worked a certain number of years or attained a certain number of "work credits" based on earnings over your working years. The required work credits or working years will vary based on your age at the time of your disability and can fluctuate with inflation and annual work history requirement changes.
If you're considering filing for Social Security disability, it's important that you talk with a Social Security disability attorney first to familiarize yourself with the current regulations regarding work history. Your claim will be denied if you don't meet the standards as they are defined.
Exceeding Maximum Earnings
Another reason why some Social Security disability applications are denied relates to whether the applicant is currently earning more than the Social Security Administration permits for those under disability consideration. In order to qualify for disability, you must be unable to work in any meaningful, gainful way to support yourself without the help of disability benefits. If you're still able to earn an amount in excess of their maximum allowable earnings, that means you're able to be gainfully employed.
It's important to discuss your current work situation and earnings with your Social Security disability attorney before you apply for benefits. That way, if there's any question about your income, your attorney can help you determine how your income compares to the existing requirements.
Not Meeting Application And Response Deadlines
One of the things that you'll find when you apply for Social Security disability is that you'll have to meet certain deadlines for providing supporting documents, attending hearings, and responding to requests. If you miss one of those deadlines, that often leads to an application denial as a result.
That's why it's in your best interest to retain a Social Security disability attorney before you file. That way, your attorney can become the central point of contact and keep everything organized. Your attorney will ensure that you're informed of all of the upcoming deadlines so that you don't forfeit your claim solely due to missing one.
Errors In The Application Process
Filling out the application for Social Security disability can be complicated when you don't fully understand the process or what it's asking for. Even a single mistake, such as a transposed or missed date, an overlooked employer, or any other similar issue could lead to a denial of your claim.
You can avoid this risk by working with a Social Security disability lawyer to fill out the application and file your claim. Your lawyer will have enough experience with the disability application process to help you through it and ensure that the documentation is complete and accurate. This reduces your chances of denial based on a technicality.
While most people might think that the only time they can be denied for Social Security disability is on a medical basis, there are many other reasons why you might face denial. Understanding these common causes of issues can help you to better prepare before you submit your application. Talk with an attorney near you today for more support and guidance.
