Common Reasons Why Social Security Claims Are Denied

About 67% of Social Security disability claims are denied at initial consideration. On reconsideration, 85 to 80% of resubmitted claims are disapproved. At a hearing, while approval can depend substantially on what judge your case is assigned to, the average disapproval after a hearing by a judge is still 50%.

A Lack Of Medical Treatment Or Inadequate Medical Treatment

The most common reason that a claim would be denied is a lack of medical treatment or inadequate medical treatment. Even though you’re seeing a doctor, and they may be prescribing medications, your treatment must be documented in a way that explains the problems that you’re having.

Your doctor must also be doing the kind of examinations that show Social Security what limitations you are experiencing, or why you might be having such a difficult time due to this health problem. Has your doctor done the tests that are going to show that you have this health issue, and that explore the types of restrictions or limitations you are experiencing because of your health issue? If not, your claim may be denied.

Failure To Cooperate

Failing to cooperate with Social Security is another common reason for denial. This could occur if you fail to attend one of the examinations with Social Security’s doctors. Or, it may be failing to return the paperwork that they’ve requested, even if it was because you did not provide them with your current contact information. If you can’t be reached, they’re going to make a decision based on the information they already have and that information may not lead to your claim being approved.

Misunderstanding Social Security’s Definition Of Disability

Another common reason for claims being denied is a misunderstanding of what the Social Security Disability Insurance program is. Individuals who file are asked about how their injury or illness will keep them from doing any kind of job for at least 12 months. If not, their impairment doesn’t qualify.

Many people just aren’t aware of what SSD programs are really there for. For example, you may think that you can file for SSD benefits if you expect to be out of work for six months with a persistent injury. However, these cases just don’t qualify.

This is one of the reasons it is so helpful to work with an attorney. By consulting with an expert in the beginning, you can be sure that you understand the requirements of the program that you are looking to apply for – before you spend time going through the long process.

With the guidance of a skilled attorney for Social Security Disability Law Cases, you can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that we’ll make it look easy.

For more information on Social Security Disability Law in North Carolina, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling or texting (704) 412-4773 today.