Thousands of Americans apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits each year. Unfortunately, most of these claims are denied. And this begs the question – why do seemingly clean SSD claims fall through the cracks?
Social Security Disability benefits can be denied for a variety of reasons. Understanding why this happens can help you boost the odds of your claim ending in approval. That said, here are three common reasons why most SSD claims end in denial.
1. Lack of evidence
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will review your medical documentation to determine whether you can work in your current role or find a different job. If you do not provide adequate medical evidence that proves that your condition is likely to prevent you from working for 12 months or more, your claim will be refused. Likewise, if you are not following through with your treatment plan, your claim may be denied.
2. Your condition does not qualify for the benefits
To qualify for SSD benefits, your condition must satisfy the SSA’s definition of a disability. The SSA has a list of conditions that it deems disabling. In other words, while assessing your application, the SSA will seek to establish whether your condition is comparable to the conditions on the list.
3. Issues with your employment history
To qualify for SSD benefits, you must have worked for a certain period and earned some “work credits.” Generally, you need 40 credits, and you must earn a least 20 of these within the last 10 years. The age you became disabled is also taken into account.
What if your disability claim is denied?
If your disability claim is denied, it helps to understand that you may appeal the decision. Generally, you have 60 days from the date of learning about the refusal to file your appeal.
A denied disability claim may seem like a huge setback. And it is. Knowing some of the reasons why disability benefits are denied can help you boost your odds of getting the desired outcome.