Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program run by the government that provides financial support to people with disabilities. The disabilities must be so severe that it restricts their ability to work for at least a year or is expected to result in death. Those who qualify receive monthly benefits based on their work history and how much they paid in social security. This means that older applicants have a higher chance of receiving more benefits.
Applying for SSDI benefits can be a confusing process, as there are aspects of the claim that can bemuse applicants who may qualify for the benefits. The majority of these claims are initially rejected. Rejections can happen for reasons such as minor paperwork errors, so it’s important to not worry and make sure that you avoid the common mistakes when applying again.
In this guide, we will explore the common mistakes associated with applying for SSDI benefits and how you can avoid them to have a better chance of getting an application accepted.
Don’t wait too long
The approval process for receiving SSDI benefits usually takes several months, at a minimum. If the claim is initially rejected, it can prolong the process even further and months can be added to the expected approval time. In addition to this, no matter how long you have had your disability, you can only receive benefits for a maximum of one year before your application date. Therefore, you mustn’t waste time before submitting your application.
Don’t apply too soon
While it’s important to not wait too long before applying for SSDI benefits, you must also not apply too soon. You need to make sure that you have all the facts regarding your disability to make sure that your application is as accurate as possible. Establishing that your disability will last at least a year is important, so securing the proper medical history documents is essential.
If the SSDI representative has any suspicion that your disability is only short-term and that your condition will improve before qualifying for the benefits, they have the right to reject it.
Lack of details
One of the primary reasons that an SSDI claim will be rejected is because there is not enough information or details given about the disability. Many claimants will name the disability without describing it enough in the application. When filling out the application, you need to directly establish how and why the condition stops you from working and receiving a liveable wage. The more details you go into, the higher chance you have of your application being accepted.
Provide accurate details
Proving as many details of your disability is very important, but you need to make sure that you provide an accurate account of the details. You mustn’t downplay or exaggerate your symptoms, as if you get caught out with any lies it could negatively affect your application. Honesty is the best policy for SSDI applications, as reviewers need a completely accurate picture of your situation.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will obtain copies of your medical record to verify statements made in your claim. If what you have stated does not match up to the records, your application could be judged to be illegitimate and will be rejected.
See your doctor
Before you even consider submitting an SSDI claim, you need to ensure that you have your doctor’s support and advice to do so. If they don’t agree with your own assessment of your condition, it might be best to avoid submitting an application as their medical opinion could damage your claim. If you feel as though you need to submit a claim as you cannot work due to your condition, you could consider seeking out a new medical professional who will agree with you.
Consult an attorney
A big mistake that a lot of claimants make is that they don’t consult an attorney about their plans to apply for SSDI benefits. Claimants who are represented by a legal professional increase their chances of being approved for benefits than those who avoid help.
The SSDI process involves multiple stages. An attorney can help you navigate the appeals process effectively and make it easier for you. They will be able to present your medical condition in a way that supports SSA’s definition of a disability, which will increase your chances of successful application.
Watch out for fraudsters
AI voice scams are a new challenge in the world of SSDI claims. Scammers can now use AI powered voice to sound convincing and official, as they attempt to claim your Social Security benefits by stating that there is suspicious activity on your account. This can force the victim to give over their personal information, as the fraudster creates a sense of urgency.
Companies like investment fraud lawyers, WRS and cybersecurity firms will be able to help you catch these fraud attempts so that your personal information remains secure and scammers won’t be able to take your SSDI claims.
Don’t underexplain your work history
An applicant might have a great explanation of their disability and go into a lot of detail, but they fail to demonstrate how it keeps them from working. This can happen if an applicant doesn’t detail the requirements of their most recent job or previous jobs that they have had.
If the SSA finds out that you have previous work experience in a field that you could re-enter, they could reject your application as it will be deemed that you can work. That’s why it is important to clearly establish what you have previously been trained in so that you can clearly explain why you are unable to work.
SSDI claim success
To ensure that your SSDI claim is a success you need careful preparation, thorough documentation and consultation with an attorney. It’s essential that you don’t let avoidable mistakes prevent you from receiving the benefits you deserve. Hopefully, if you are looking to claim benefits, you will now know what to avoid when completing your application.
When considering going ahead with the claim you need to take initiative, be informed and approach the process with confidence.
