Five Problems You May Run Into During Your SSDI/SSI Application

The process of applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be difficult and long, and any mistake may potentially lead to serious setbacks. If you are careful, however, nearly any problem you encounter can be addressed. Beware these five problems that you may run into while filling out your SSDI or SSI application:

1. Your application has mistakes on it
   • More than half of all applications for SSDI or SSI are rejected as a result of simple paperwork errors. While you may have an opportunity to correct these mistakes after you submit it, your window for doing so is limited. If you do not take care to ensure your application is complete and correct, it may be rejected before the merits of your case are even considered.
2. You are missing important paperwork
   • Another common issue that plagues SSDI and SSI applications is missing paperwork. This could mean that you missed an important form, or that you failed to submit appropriate ID or other pertinent information. Make sure to send any missing paperwork as soon as possible if you want to avoid having your SSDI/SSI application thrown out.
3. You need to submit additional medical evidence
   • A critical problem that some applications for SSDI and SSI benefits have is a lack of medical evidence for the disability claimed. This means that the applicant failed to submit sufficient medical records, such as tests, examinations, and records of treatment, which would indicate the condition(s) they are being treated for. If you are missing medical evidence, you may be asked to obtain more from your doctor, or your SSDI/SSI application may be discarded.
4. You need to submit more financial information
   • Both SSDI and SSI have specific financial qualifications you must meet in order to be eligible for their benefits. In the case of SSDI, that means demonstrating you had sufficient work credits to qualify, while in the case of SSI, you must show you did not make more than a certain amount of money. If you fail to submit the correct information, your SSDI or SSI application may be denied.
5. You need to appeal your application
   • Finally, if your application is denied, that does not mean you are at the end of the road. There is an appeals process in place for people whose application for SSDI or SSI benefits was denied. However, to give yourself the best chance at success, you should contact a lawyer with experience handling SSDI and SSI applications, who can assist you with your case.

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.