Five Questions to Avoid Social Security Disability Denial

If you are looking to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you will need to make sure you have everything you need to qualify. However, not everyone knows what they will need, or what might cause them to have their application denied. Here are five questions you should ask yourself to avoid a Social Security disability denial:

• Do you have all the documents you need?

1. 1. • Applying for Social Security disability benefits can be complicated, and you will need a lot of documents filled out properly for your application. Before you submit your application, make sure you have everything you need and make sure it is filled out fully and correctly. A full list of what documents you need can be found here.

• Do you have medical evidence of your disability?

1. 1. • Unfortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not simply take people at their word when they claim they have a disability. You need medical evidence from your doctor or therapist to confirm your claim, which typically comes in the form of medical records, tests, and lab results. Make sure you have these available so you can complete your application.

• Have you been following your doctor’s advice?

1. 1. • It isn’t enough to simply have documentation from your doctor. You also need to show that you have been following their prescribed course of treatment, such as taking medication or undergoing medical procedures. If you seek disability benefits but you have not tried to have your condition treated, your application may be denied.

• Do you have enough work credits?

1. 1. • To qualify for SSDI benefits, you need to earn a certain number of “work credits” by earning money and paying Social Security taxes, either by working for an employer or as a self-employed worker. If you are 31 and older, you will need 40 work credits, while younger workers can qualify with less. If you do not have enough work credits, your application for SSDI benefits will be denied.

• Is your income too high?

1. • Both SSDI and SSI are only granted to people if they make below a certain income threshold, which is different between the two programs. If you make too much money in a year, you will not be able to qualify for these benefits. If you are unsure if you qualify, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling Social Security disability 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.