The best way to ensure you have a good chance at obtaining Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits is to make sure you do everything right the first time. That means it is essential that you avoid a few common mistakes that may result in your application being denied. Here are five crucial mistakes you should avoid when applying for SSDI or SSI benefits:
- Make sure your paperwork is accurate and complete
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- One of the most common reasons that people’s applications for SSDI or SSI are denied is due to normal mistakes and omissions from their paperwork. Getting things like names, addresses, or phone numbers wrong, or forgetting important documents, are all potential reasons for denials. That is why you should always make sure to double check your application before submitting it.
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- Ensure you have records of your income and employment
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- Both SSDI and SSI have strict economic requirements, in addition to the requirements to prove the nature and extent of your disability. This may include income tax records, workers compensation statements, and anything else indicating your income and employment history. If you fail to adequately document your income, you may not be able to obtain SSDI or SSI benefits.
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- Return calls and messages from the SSA promptly
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- That being said, making a mistake on your paperwork does not necessarily mean your application will be denied automatically. However, when you do make a significant error, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will contact you by your preferred contact method. Make sure to return these messages promptly, or risk having your application denied.
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- Be honest and open about your condition
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- When you discuss your medical condition, it is important to be forthright about the issues you have faced. This is because you will likely need to go through a medical exam to confirm your diagnosis and symptoms, even if you have good medical documentation of your condition. If you are dishonest or omit important information, it could lead to issues with your SSDI or SSI application.
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- Hire a lawyer to assist with your application
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- The best way to ensure you avoid any potential problems is to speak to a lawyer with experience handling disability applications. They can ensure your application is complete and accurate, and deal with any issues that arise. In the case of a denial, they can also help you appeal your application to give you a better chance at success.
If you or a loved one need assistance applying for SSDI or SSI benefits, it is important that you seek the guidance of an experienced Social Security Disability benefits lawyer. The lawyers at Sullivan & Kehoe, LLP have over 50 years of combined experience between its attorneys and are available to you or your loved one in obtaining Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits. To schedule a consultation with our New York Social Security Disability benefits lawyers, call (631) 823-7155.
