Millions of people apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) every single year. However, less than half of these applicants manage to successfully get the benefits they apply for. So why exactly might your disability application be denied, and what can you do if it happens to you?
What is Involved in an SSDI or SSI Application?
When you apply for SSDI or SSI benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSI), you need to demonstrate that you fit two types of criteria. First, you must qualify by having a disability, meaning you must have a physical or psychological condition that impairs your ability to hold down a job or function in daily life. Second, you must meet the specific economic criteria, whether by having enough work credits for SSDI, or falling below the income and asset thresholds for SSI.
Why Might Your Application Be Denied?
By far the most common reason that people have their applications denied is that they make errors on the paperwork they submit. However, they may also be denied if it is determined that their disability is not sufficiently severe to qualify for benefits, or if they failed to follow doctor’s orders. Alternatively, they may be denied if they do not have enough work credits, or if their income is too high.
What Happens if it Gets Denied?
If your application is denied, you may still have options available to you to get disability benefits. Primarily, this means appealing your application to a higher authority with the SSA, which may include getting it reviewed by an administrative court judge. In the most extreme circumstances, you may even appeal your application to federal court.
What Should You Do?
To give yourself the best chance of success with your SSDI or SSI application, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling disability applications. They can help review your case and ensure you get the best possible outcome for your situation. They can also represent you if you need to appeal your application after it has been denied.
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.
