Each day, the Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at hundreds of applications for disability benefits. They have to stick with strict criteria when reviewing these applications because if not, people could be given financial aid they do not genuinely need. This is why when it comes to your disability benefits application, you need to make sure your disability qualifies first, then you need to collect the evidence necessary to prove your limitations. Talk to a Pennsylvania denied benefits appeal lawyer if you experienced problems with your application. 

Common Reasons for a Denied Disability Claim

There are several reasons your initial disability benefits application may have been denied, but the number one reason most applications are denied is a lack of medical evidence. Without evidence to support your claim that you can no longer work because of your disability, the SSA has no reason to believe you. Evidence is necessary to prevent people from receiving benefits they do not actually need.

Collecting the right medical evidence may be complicated for certain medical conditions. You will need writing from your doctor listed in your medical records that your disability significantly interferes with your physical capabilities. Also, look for doctor’s notes that have excused you from work or certain activities on behalf of your disability. 

Since many people focus on the disability itself, income criteria can be easily missed. However, the criteria you need to meet for the income requirements can only affect your application if you are applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. You will not need to worry about this if you are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Double-check with the requirements or a lawyer to make sure you are up to par with these.

Not cooperating with your doctor or the treatments prescribed can also prevent you from receiving benefits because this prevents the SSA from accurately judging your medical condition. 

Filing an Appeal to the SSA

If your application was denied, there is no need to panic. Talk to a lawyer about filing an appeal against the SSA. There is an entire appeals process with different levels including reconsideration, a hearing, an Appeals Council review, and a Federal Court review before you run out of options. 

A reconsideration completely re-reviews your application to look at new evidence or changes to your application. If your application is still denied, you can have a hearing with an administrative law judge. This is when a lawyer may be able to help you defend your claim. 

Disability Lawyer in Pennsylvania 

Try talking to a Pennsylvania individual disability insurance lawyer if your disability benefits application or appeals were denied. All you have to do is contact Edelstein & Nelson at (800) 300-0909 for a consultation today. The process involved with applying for benefits can be tedious. Our team of lawyers can walk you through the process to increase your chances of approval.