Common Reasons Why Social Security Disability Claims Are Denied

 Posted on August 09, 2021 in Social Security Disability

Those who suffer from serious injuries, chronic illnesses, or other health conditions may be unable to support themselves financially, and they may apply for Social Security disability benefits to receive assistance with their ongoing needs. However, many Social Security disability claims are denied. By understanding some of the most common reasons for the denial of these claims, applicants can avoid issues that may affect their ability to receive benefits.

Denial of SSD Applications

A claim for Social Security disability benefits may be denied based on:

• The length of time a condition has lasted - To qualify for disability benefits, a health condition must last for at least one year. If an applicant has not been affected by a disability for at least 12 months, or if their condition is not expected to last for a total of 12 months or more, they will not be able to receive disability benefits.

• Income and financial resources - A health condition must have affected a person’s ability to participate in “substantial gainful activity.” A person will meet the requirements for substantial gainful activity, or SGA, if they are currently earning below a certain amount of income each month. In 2021, SGA is defined as income of $1,310 per month, or $2,190 per month for a blind person. If a person is currently working and earning at least this much income, they will not qualify for disability benefits.

• Documentation - Multiple different forms of information will need to be provided during the SSD application process, including pay stubs or other documents showing income that was earned in the past and records related to medical treatment, examinations, test results, and medications. A disability claim may be denied due to the failure to provide any necessary documents or other information.

• Medical treatment - Applicants for disability benefits are expected to take all necessary steps to recover from their conditions as much as possible. A person must follow all of a doctor’s recommendations during a treatment plan. A disability claim may be denied if a person failed to follow a doctor’s instructions or did not take the required steps that would allow them to become self-sufficient.

• Residual functional capacity - Social Security will evaluate whether a person is able to perform work they had done in the past or whether they will be able to find employment while adjusting to any limitations related to their health condition. A disability claim may be denied if Social Security determines that a person has the capacity to maintain gainful employment.

Contact Our Plano Social Security Disability Claim Attorneys

At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, we can help you during the process of applying for SSD benefits, ensuring that you meet all requirements and provide the correct information. We can also work with you to appeal the denial of a disability claim, and we will advocate on your behalf to ensure that you will be able to receive the benefits you need. Contact our Dallas Social Security Disability appeals lawyers today at 972-671-9922 to arrange a free case evaluation.

Sources:

https://www.fool.com/investing/general/2015/07/25/8-reasons-your-social-security-disability-claim-wa.aspx

https://www.ssa.gov/oact/cola/sga.html