Applying for disability benefits is a crucial step if you’re unable to work due to a disability. However, there might be instances where the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies your claim even if you meet the eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
This is why Casa de la Justicia exists. With our team of professionals and our experience and expertise in the field, we can guide you towards the best way of filling in your disability application. In this article, we’ll guide you through what to do if your disability application was denied and how to protect your legal rights.
Common Reasons for SSDI Claim Denials
SSDI claims can be denied for various reasons. Here are some common ones:
- Insufficient Medical Evidence: Your application may be denied if there’s a lack of adequate medical evidence to document your disability.
- Filing a New Application: Some applicants reapply for benefits after their initial application is denied, rather than appealing the decision or taking other necessary steps.
- Income Exceeds Limits: If you continued working during the SSA’s review of your claim and earned more than the allowed amount, you may no longer qualify for SSDI benefits.
- Non-Compliance with Medical Treatment: Failure to follow your doctor’s recommended medical treatments can be a reason for denial.
- Lack of Cooperation: If you don’t cooperate with the SSA when they request additional information, your application may be denied.
Four Steps to Take If Your SSDI Application Is Denied
Don’t be disheartened if your SSDI application is denied. You have the right to appeal the decision and fight for the benefits you deserve if you genuinely have a disability. Here are four crucial actions to protect your rights:
Hire an Attorney from Casa de la Justicia
If you haven’t already done so, it’s advisable to consult an experienced Social Security disability lawyer. We can assist you in appealing the denial, ensuring you provide the necessary evidence to prove your disability and ultimately secure SSDI benefits.
Request a reconsideration
After your initial application is denied, the SSA will send you a letter explaining their reasons. You have the right to request a reconsideration and ask them to review your entire file. Your disability attorney will help you request a reconsideration.
Request an Appeal
If your application is denied after a reconsideration, you can file an appeal and request a hearing. In this stage, an administrative law judge will evaluate your case, where you and your witnesses can testify and provide evidence to establish your disability. For this reason, one of our disability attorneys will
Submit Additional Medical Evidence
It can be beneficial to provide extra medical evidence and have your doctor complete a residual functional capacity form. This additional information can further support your claim.
Remember that your SSDI claim denial doesn’t have to be the end of the road. You have options and legal rights to appeal the decision and fight for the financial support you need to cope with your disability.
If you require assistance with your disability application or have had your application denied, please reach out to Casa de la Justicia for guidance and support. We’re here to help you through these challenging times.
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Understanding the Appeal Process
When it comes to appeals, there are four levels to address a determination that you disagree with:
- Reconsideration: This is a comprehensive review of your claim by someone not involved in the initial determination. All evidence used in the initial determination, along with any new evidence obtained or submitted, is examined.
- Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge: At this stage, an administrative law judge, who wasn’t involved in the initial or reconsideration determinations, evaluates your case. The judge reviews all the evidence and makes a decision after a hearing, during which you and your witnesses provide testimony and submit evidence supporting your disability.
- Review by the Appeals Council: If you still disagree with the decision after the hearing, you can request that the Appeals Council review it. The Appeals Council can deny or dismiss your review request or grant it. If the request is granted, the Appeals Council will either issue a new decision or return your case to an administrative law judge for further action.
- Federal Court Review: If you’re dissatisfied with the Appeals Council’s decision or if your review request is denied, you have the option to file a civil action in a Federal district court.
Remember to file your appeal within the specified deadline, provide requested additional evidence, and continue seeking medical care while maintaining a record of your treatments. These steps will help you build a stronger case and improve your chances of securing the disability benefits you need.
Disability Applications
At Casa de la Justicia, we are committed to helping individuals access the disability benefits that they need. Don’t hesitate to reach out and let us assist you in securing the disability benefits that can provide much-needed stability and peace of mind.
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