If you are unable to work due to a disabling medical condition, injury or illness, you know how important it is to secure financial support through a disability claim. Your inability to hold gainful employment can have a devastating effect on your financial stability, and securing help could be important for your Ohio family. It can be devastating to learn that your initial claim was not successful.
It is common for initial Social Security Disability Insurance claims to come back denied. While this is certainly frustrating, there are still options available to you. Instead of abandoning your pursuit of the benefits you need, you may want to explore your options for seeking a reconsideration of your application or an appeal. Many applicants find it beneficial to work with an experienced legal ally throughout this process.
Why does the SSA deny claims?
The Social Security Administration holds a strict definition of what is a qualifying disabling condition. There is a careful review of the entire claim, including evidence and medical documentation. Some of the most common reasons why the SSA denies claims include the following:
- There is not enough medical evidence included in the claim.
- Your condition does not preclude you from doing your same work or another type of work.
- Your physical or mental condition is not severe or not expected to last for at least 12 months.
- It is not clear that you cooperated with your doctor’s instructions or followed directions.
- You went back to work before you clearly established your disability.
- It is possible your disabling condition is the result of drug abuse or alcohol addiction.
In your claim, you will include things like sufficient medical documentation, records from your doctor and other evidence that could be crucial to proving your disability. If you need to appeal, you can gather and include additional evidence or other types of documents that may be necessary.
Navigating a complex process
It is not easy to secure disability benefits, even with a valid disabling medical condition. You may find it beneficial to work with an experienced SSDI attorney from the very beginning of the process in order to learn how to navigate the claims process with as few missteps as possible.
If you are not successful, you can request a reconsideration of your claim and move forward with the appeals process. You can continue your pursuit of the benefits you and your family needs.