Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be a complex and often lengthy process. Unfortunately, many applicants face the disappointment of having their social security claim denied. Understanding the reasons behind these denials is crucial for navigating the SSD system effectively.
1. Lack of Sufficient Medical Evidence
One common reason for SSD claim denials is a lack of proper medical evidence. To qualify for disability benefits, applicants must demonstrate a medically determinable impairment that prevents them from working.
This requires medical documentation- including diagnosis, treatment records, lab results, and specialist reports. Insufficient or incomplete medical evidence can lead to claim denials, as the Social Security Administration (SSA) needs to assess the severity and impact of the impairment.
To avoid this issue, it’s crucial to provide detailed medical records, including notes from your treating physicians, imaging reports, and relevant test results. Working closely with healthcare providers to gather comprehensive and up-to-date medical evidence can significantly strengthen your SSD claim.
2. Failure to Meet the Listing of Impairments
The SSA maintains a “Listing of Impairments” that outlines specific medical conditions and severity requirements for SSD eligibility. If an applicant’s medical condition meets the listing criteria, their claim is more likely to be approved. Failing to meet these requirements can lead to denials.
Review the relevant listing and collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure their evidence meets the criteria. If you find this is too overwhelming for you, your best bet is to hire an attorney to assist you.
An experienced Iowa Social Security Disability lawyer can research your conditions to determine listing eligibility. Despite not meeting the listing, they help pursue the claim by emphasizing your impairment’s limitations and restrictions.
3. Inconsistent or Incomplete Work History
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you must have a sufficient work history and a record of paying into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. Work credits determine SSA eligibility, with the required number varying by age at disability onset.
Inconsistent or incomplete work history is a reason your claim is being denied. If you don’t have enough work credits or haven’t worked recently, your claim may be denied for not meeting the work requirements.
You should review your work history and ensure you have earned sufficient credits. Consulting with the SSA or a disability attorney can provide guidance on meeting the requirements or exploring alternative programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI may be an option if you need financial assistance and are disabled, but have not been able to meet the credits requirement of SSDI benefits.
4. Failure to Follow Treatment Plans
The SSA considers an applicant’s compliance with prescribed medical treatments when evaluating disability claims. If you don’t follow the recommended treatment plan without a valid reason, your claim may be denied. This requirement helps determine if someone’s impairment would improve with appropriate treatment.
It’s crucial for applicants to actively participate in their treatment plans and maintain documentation of their compliance. If affordability or access to healthcare is a challenge, communicating these issues to the SSA with supporting evidence is essential.RSH Legal offers free, no-obligation case evaluations to Iowans whose disability claims have been denied. To schedule yours, call 1-800-433-0283 today.
