An injury that impacts your ability to work can cause significant financial repercussions. Social security disability benefits may aid in alleviating some of your unease. However, finding out that the SSA denied your claim can put you right back at square one.
Knowing how to respond in this situation may improve your chances of a more successful outcome if you choose to apply again.
Reason for denial
The best way to respond appropriately to a denied claim is to address the reason for denial. The Social Security Administration requires your disability to meet specific criteria to qualify for benefits. For example, they need to know how your disability impacts your job, what your diagnosis is and whether or not you could potentially make a full recovery. The more detail you provide in your application, the better your chances are of approval.
Still, even if you have a legitimate disability, there could be other reasons the SSA chose to deny you benefits. These may include the following:
- You did not provide enough evidence of your condition
- You refuse to comply with various requirements
- You have a criminal conviction on your record
- You have not diligently followed prescribed medical treatments
- Your condition is not considered severe enough
- Your lifestyle is heavily responsible for your disability
Filing an appeal
Fortunately, you do have the option of filing an appeal if the SSA denies your claim. Look for ways you can improve your initial application. Perhaps you missed important details or did not fill out the required information. Maybe you can work with your medical provider to collect more concrete evidence of your condition. You may also consider collaborating with your employer to provide evidence of your inability to work.
If you need help or you feel that your claim was wrongly denied, an attorney may be able to assist. Your diligence in following the SSA’s instructions can put you on the right path to getting the support you need.
