Once you have determined that you are ready to apply for Social Security Disability benefits, it is now time to decide how you would like to apply. While the Social Security Disability application process is lengthy, the Social Disability Administration (SSA) has tried to make it as simple as possible.
Disability applications can be completed online, over the phone, or by making an appointment with your local Social Security office.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) receives millions of disability applications each year. The criteria for total disability as defined by the SSA is stringent, and only approximately one-third of claimants are approved at the initial application level.
While the reasons for a denial vary from person to person, knowing in advance what pitfalls to avoid when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits may be helpful. The following are the most common reasons why Social Security Disability claims are denied:
If you are applying for Social Security Disability benefits, you need to be aware of things that you don't need to do as well as what you do need to do to improve your odds of a successful claim. When the process is not properly followed, your odds of being approved for benefits are significantly impacted. Here are a few things you need to avoid doing when you are in the process of applying for Social Security disability benefits.
Winning your Social Security Disability claim depends on proving that you are completely disabled. It is the responsibility of the Social Security Administration (SSA) to ensure that individuals who genuinely need benefits have access to them. As such, the SSA carefully scrutinizes each applicant and attempts to assess if their limitations might allow them to do a less strenuous job. If it is determined that you can adapt to a more manageable job, you may be denied the disability benefits that you desperately need.
The SSDI application process is complicated, even for the most educated and prepared individual. According to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), less than 40% of Social Security disability applications are approved at the initial application level.
If your case is one that receives an initial denial, you may appeal the decision. Depending on the state in which you live, you may be able to request a reconsideration. In certain states, a second individual who has no experience with your application will make a new decision.
