If you are unable to work because of medical problems, you might be eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits, which are administered through the Social Security Administration (SSA). The disability claims process is very complicated with the most claims being denied initially, but a claim denial can be appealed.
There are several common reasons for disability claims denials; however, most claims are denied because of a lack of hard medical evidence, failure for the disabled worker to continue with treatment, the individual’s income exceed the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limits. In Colorado, there is a disability denial rate of 68.2%. Upon the request for reconsideration, the denial rate is 76.9%. When the claim reaches the hearing level, the denial rate drops to 52.2%.
Visiting the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review
When you appeal your claim denial, you will have to visit the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR). When you go to the ODAR, you will have a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). At this hearing, you will be questioned about your condition and limitations in detail by the ALJ. You will also be questioned by a vocational expert. It can take anywhere from a few months to two years to be scheduled for a hearing before an ALJ. It can take up to 60 days after a hearing to get a decision as to whether you are approved for disability benefits.
There are several ODAR offices located throughout Colorado. A couple of the most used offices are in Colorado Springs and Denver. Colorado Springs, which has 14 judges, has an average wait time of 19 months for a decision. Processing takes an average of 607 days with an average of 39% case approval. At the ODAR in Denver, there are 18 judges and the wait for a hearing is about 18.5 months. It takes an average of 595 days to get a decision and 41% of claims are approved. When you go to a hearing you want to make sure you have legal representation who can help you show the severity of your condition along with your limitations and restrictions.
Getting Help From A Colorado Social Security Attorney
Because of the complexity of disability claims and the challenges faced when seeking benefits, you should consult with a Social Security attorney. A Social Security attorney or advocate can gather up all the necessary documentation and evidence necessary to support your benefits claim so Disability Determination Services can thoroughly evaluate your claim and determine if the medical criteria required by the SSA have been satisfied and that your condition warrants the approval of disability benefits.
When you enlist the help of a Social Security attorney or advocate, your lawyer will be able to accompany you to your local SSA office and make sure all your documentation is in order and available for an accurate review. Your odds of a successful claim improve significantly with the help of an attorney. Your medical records must be in order and readily accessible along with other documentation that supports your claim. Your attorney will work with the SSA representatives regarding your case.
There are several SSA offices throughout Colorado. The SSA offices in Colorado include:
US Social Security Administration
2306 E Pikes Peak Avenue
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
US Social Security Administration
1500 Champa Street #200
Denver, CO 80202
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
US Social Security Administration
3769 Parker Blvd.
Pueblo, CO 81008
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
If you are ready to file a claim for disability benefits, you need to talk with a Social Security attorney today. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page so your details can be shared with a disability lawyer who can review your case and help you get your claim started on the right track so you can get the monthly benefits that you need.
