If you are unable to work because of medical problems, you might be eligible to receive disability benefits. The disability claims process is complicated, and being approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA) can be difficult and time-consuming.
If your disability claim has been denied in Virginia, you are not alone. You will need to file an appeal within the specified timeframe to continue through the process, so a disability attorney in Virginia can help you get your claim on the right track.
Why are Social Security Disability Claims Denied in Virginia?
When it comes to learning why disability claims are denied in Virginia, you might be surprised to learn there are numerous reasons. However, some reasons are much more common than others. Here are a few of the leading causes of disability claim denials.
- A lack of hard medical evidence that allows Disability Determination Services (DDS) to know the severity of your condition and how it limits you from participating in daily activities. This documentation must indicate limitations and restrictions and show the severity of your conditions, as well as the symptoms and treatment side effects.
- Reapplying after a claim has already been denied is another reason for claims being denied. If your claim is denied, there is a letter sent to you that details the findings and the reasons your claim was denied. You should file an appeal and correct those issues. Refiling can cost you your backpay and result in another denial. Your chances of success are much better when you follow the instructions and appeal the decision.
- Many claimants continue working part-time throughout the applicant process because they need a source of income. The biggest mistake is earning more than allowed for substantial gainful activity (SGA). If you earn more than the current SGA limits, your claim will be denied. The SSA will assume that you are able to work and earn a living.
- Many claims get denial notices because the claimant fails to cooperate with the SSA. If you are asked to provide additional information, you should do so by the deadline. If there is a hold-up, or if you have questions about what is needed, talk with Disability Determination Services (DDS).
- Failure to continue with your medical care can also lead to your claim being denied. If you don’t go for follow-up visits, then DDS has no way of knowing if your condition has stayed the same or changed. Without that information, they cannot accurately assess your claim and determine your eligibility.
With the help of a Social Security attorney in Virginia, you can avoid these kinds of claim denials. A lawyer will help you get your claim on track.
Where are the ODARs in Virginia?
If you have had your claim denied twice and appealed those decisions, you will request a hearing before an administrative law judge. Hearings are held at the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR). It can take several months to get a hearing date scheduled. Here are some ODARs in Virginia.
Charlottesville ODAR Office
1470 Pantops Mountain Place, 2nd Floor
Charlottesville, Virginia 22911
Richmond ODAR Office
801 East Main Street, 4th Floor
Richmond, Virginia 23219-2406
Roanoke ODAR Office
Second Floor, Suite 200612 South Jefferson Street
Roanoke, Virginia 24011
Your Social Security attorney in Virginia will represent you at your hearing and will help you prepare for it.
How a Social Security Attorney in Virginia Can Help You With Your Claim Denial
Disability claims are often denied. A Social Security disability attorney in Virginia can improve your chances of being approved for disability benefits. A lawyer will file your appeals and request a hearing before an administrative law judge, making sure all the evidence is made available, so a fair decision can be made.
Disability attorneys work on a contingency basis, so you have nothing to lose. Your lawyer will not be paid until you are approved for disability benefits. If your disability claim was denied in Virginia, you should complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page today and get your claim on the right track. Don’t put off getting the help you need to get your claim approved.
