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My claim for SSD benefits has been denied. Now what?

On Behalf of | Mar 11, 2016 | Social Security Disability Benefits

Many people have suffered severe injuries or illnesses that prevent them from being able to return to work for at least one year. These individuals have a very difficult time making ends meet, and often do not have the financial resources to be able to go a year without working.

Thankfully, there is relief that may be available. Many of these workers will file for Social Security Disability benefits which will provide them with much-needed compensation as they struggle to deal with their condition. Unfortunately, these benefits are extremely difficult to obtain. This posting discusses what workers should do in the very likely scenario that their initial requests for benefits are denied.

Don’t Panic – This Happens To Almost Everyone

The Social Security Administration, the agency that handles the requests for these benefits, reports that only 25 percent of initial claims for benefits are approved. This means that three out of every four applications the SSA reviews are rejected outright.

There are reasons that some of these applicants receive denials. The application process is extremely thorough. Some forget to include critical information from their doctors which is necessary to establish that they have conditions that qualify for SSD benefits. Others may miss other documentation that the agency needs to ensure that the individual is a qualified applicant.

What Options Are Available To Me If My Claim Is Rejected?

It can take time for an application to wind its way through the system. Unfortunately, many who are struggling with severe injuries and illnesses do not have the luxury of simply waiting for this process to take its course. They need benefits as soon as possible.

If your claim is rejected, you will have several options. They may request that the agency reconsider its decision. This means that the SSA will take a second look at the request to determine if the initial ruling was correct. There are extremely limited time frames associated with reconsiderations, and you have to be sure that you request this before the deadline passes.

Applicants may also have a hearing before an administrative law judge, but it can take a long time for that hearing to finally happen. While you wait, you will be without the benefits that you need so desperately. You may also appeal the final decision to the courts, but again, this can be a long and frustrating process.

Seek The Assistance Of An Experienced Attorney

So, what can you do to ensure that your application gets the respect that it deserves? You need to talk to an experienced Social Security Disability attorney. Your attorney will be able to ensure that your application is filled out correctly the first time, so that all of the information needed to establish your claim is present.

If your claim is rejected, your attorney will know exactly what to do to help your claims receive a second look. You will learn what information you need to include in your request, and this can help your claims advance in a much more positive fashion. 

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