If you have done any research on applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you’ve likely heard that many people don’t get benefits. While there are many reasons why you might be denied SSDI, one of the most obvious mistakes is a failure to work with a qualified attorney.
If you don’t take appropriate steps and gather the right materials concerning your work history and medical requirements, there is a good chance you will be denied SSDI. The legal team at the House of Justice is here to work with you on your SSDI filing – every step of the way. In fact, we have an exceptional approval rating for social security disability claims.
How Many SSDI Claims Get Approved the First Time?
Due to the complexity and rigorous standards of SSDI claims, the odds of getting approved with your first filing are not very good.
According to the SSA website, “the percentage of applicants awarded benefits at the initial claims level averaged 21 percent” during the years 2010-2019. As can be seen, that means 79% of claims are denied the first time.
If your SSDI claim is denied, you have the option to appeal. After accounting for the appeals process, the SSA reports that about an additional 12% of applications are approved. When you account for both initial claims and appeals, “denied disability claims have averaged 67 percent” of total filings.
How Many Times Can You Apply for SSDI?
There are no limits on the number of times you can file SSDI claims with the SSA. However, how you decide to move forward with either an appeal or a new claim can impact your chances of being awarded social security disability.
If you are denied and decide to appeal your initial claim, there are multiple steps you can take. First, by filing a reconsideration you will get “a complete review of your claim by someone who did not take part in the first determination.” Second, you can take your claim further by having it heard by an administrative law judge.
Aside from appealing your original claim, there are other avenues you might take for applying for social security disability coverage multiple times.
In some instances, people choose to file a new SSDI claim for the same medical condition. While lawyers generally feel that appealing is a better option, there are some circumstances when filing a new claim makes more sense. For example, your medical condition might have grown more severe since your initial filing, which likely warrants a whole new claim.
Another reason to file multiple SSDI claims would be multiple medical conditions. While you might have been denied social security benefits for one condition, you can still qualify if a different illness or injury occurs in your life.
What is the Average Time for an SSDI Decision?
From missing paperwork to poor communication, there are many variables that can influence how long it takes for an SSDI decision. However, there are some average times that you can expect to wait when filing a claim.
Average time for SSDI decisions in different phases of filing and appeals include:
- Initial Application: 3-4 months (up to 8 months)
- Reconsideration: 3-4 months (in addition to time for initial filing)
- Law Judge Hearing: 6-24 months (in addition to time for initial filing and reconsideration)
While some people believe that SSDI denials come faster than approvals, there isn’t much evidence to substantiate this belief.
Why are Social Security Disability Claims Denied?
There are several key reasons why social security disability claims are regularly denied.
Disorganized Filing Process
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with your claim is not being organized with your SSDI filing. According to the SSA, “if you fail to provide the Social Security office with requested documentation or fail to show up to your scheduled medical exams, your claim will be denied.”
Work History Requirements
Many people also get confused on the work history requirements for SSDI. Importantly, only legal workers who have paid taxes for 5 of the past 10 years qualify. Also, if you are still working part-time and making more than $1200 per month, you will be denied social security benefits.
Accurate & Recent Medical Records
The SSA has strict medical evidence requirements for SSDI claims. In order for your claim to be accepted, you must prove that you are unable to work due to your condition. Generally, medical evidence includes “records kept by your primary care physicians” and “doctor’s notes excusing you from work” – among other things.
Talk to the House of Justice About Social Security Benefits
Working with the House of Justice is one of the best things you can do to ensure that your SSDI claim is approved. Whether it be getting organized for your initial claim or filing an appeal, our lawyers will do everything they can to help your social security benefits.
The team at the House of Justice can translate SSA applications into Spanish if needed. Moreover, we will help you access your medical records and work history to be sure all the relevant information is included.
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