Have you applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and received a rejection? You are not alone. Many applications for disability benefits get rejected in the initial phase.
Many applications get rejected initially because of incomplete documentation supporting the application or mistakes made by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Because of this, you may still have an strong chance of being approved for benefits if you go through the appeals process.
Here are 3 important things you should do when appealing an SSDI rejection.
Hire an Experienced Disability Lawyer
Perhaps the most important thing you can do to help you through the appeals process is getting the help of an experienced disability lawyer. The SSA does not require you to work with a disability lawyer. However, a disability lawyer has greater knowledge to help prepare you for the disability appeals hearing.
Statistics show that those with legal representation have a greater chance of being awarded benefits.
Be Honest about the Effects of Your Disability
You should never exaggerate the effects your disability has on your daily life. You also should not downplay any limitations it may cause. Some people may feel embarrassed to discuss how their disability affects them physically or mentally. You should not be ashamed to admit exactly how your disability has affected your life.
The purpose of the appeals hearing is to better understand how your disability prevents you from performing work-related activities. By downplaying the severity of your disability, you could fail to show the extent of how your condition hinders your ability to work.
Disclose Any Mistakes the SSA Made with Your Initial Determination
The SSA has specific regulations and criteria set forth for the determination of disability benefits approval. Unfortunately, SSA representatives are only human and can make mistakes.
In the denial letter you received from the SSA, an “explanation of determination” details why the SSA denied your claim. If anything is missing or incorrect, you need to address it in your written letter of appeal and during the appeals hearing. You should also submit any records or other information that can confirm your claim of error.
Do not let the fear of calling out the SSA on their mistakes stop you from making your claim for appeal stronger.
Getting Help Appealing Your Disability Rejection
As already noted, having the help of an experienced disability attorney during the appeals process can be very beneficial. Brock & Stout’s disability attorneys have over 20 years of experience helping clients through the disability appeals process. Contact us today for a free evaluation. Let us see if we can help guide you through the appeals process and get the benefits you need.