Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance can be an arduous process. For someone who has suffered from an injury or significant illness, this type of federal benefit can make all the difference. Such a hardship can cause significant financial struggles for a person and their family. Unfortunately, more than 70% of all SSDI applications are initially rejected by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It’s important to note that sometimes, the reason for the rejection may be easily rectified. Enlisting the services of a disability attorney to aid in the appeals process may increase your chances of obtaining SSDI. The following, are common mistakes made by applicants during the SSDI process:
Mistake #1 Incorrectly Filling Out the SSDI Application
This is probably one of the most common errors a claimant can make during the application process. For someone who is unfamiliar with the process, it can be easy to make mistakes when applying for SSDI. Unfortunately, SSDI claims can be rejected for something as small as a technical error on an application. It may be beneficial to work with an attorney from the start to avoid this from happening. They can help to put together the application and supporting documents correctly, and in a timely manner.
Mistake #2 Not Checking in on the Status of the Application
Deadlines for SSDI are stringent. Failure to comply within the appropriate timeframes can result in either a rejection of your claim, or require that you start the entire process over. Usually, the SSA will notify you of their decision in writing, by mail. Because of this, it’s important to ensure that the SSA has the most updated information. The last thing you want is for your notice to go to the wrong address or get lost in the mail. As a result, the deadline to file an appeal could pass you by.
Mistake #3 Giving Up
Learning that your claim for SSDI has been denied can be incredibly discouraging. Many often lose hope when this occurs. It’s important that claimants do not give up at this point in the process. With such a large amount of claims initially denied, the request may be rectified through the appeals process.
Mistake #4 Attempting to Avoid the Appeals Process by Filing a New Application
Upon receiving an SSDI rejection, some make attempts to file a new application altogether rather than endure the appeals process. This is a complete waste of time. Not only will the process take longer, it will almost always result in the same decision in the end. The appeals process doesn’t mean that you won’t ultimately receive SSDI, it’s just an additional step in the process to endure. Enlisting an attorney’s services is sure to be in your best interest at this point as they will be able to put together your case for the appeals process and represent you throughout.
A Disability Attorney
SSDI can be complicated for someone unfamiliar with the process. Hiring an attorney who works in this area of the law can help when ensuring that your rights are protected. In fact, people who are represented in the appeals process may actually have a higher likelihood of obtaining an outcome that is in their favor.
Although the SSA has a high SSDI denial rate, it doesn’t mean that all hope is lost. In fact, a number of denials are overturned during the appeals process, especially with the help of an attorney. If your application for SSDI has recently been denied by the SSA, contact a Bristol social security disability lawyer for benefit denials as soon as possible so that you can file an appeal within the proper timeframes.
Thanks to The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt for their insight into social security law and frequently made mistakes.