If you are considering filing for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, it is important to understand the process and the potential mistakes you might make that could lead to a denied claim. Knowing what mistakes to avoid can help you to get your claim approved the first time. Here are the five most common mistakes made by SSD applicants that can lead to a denied claim.
Mistake #1: Failing to File On Time
One of the most common mistakes that applicants make is failing to file their claim on time. The Social Security Administration requires that all claims be filed within one year of the onset of disability. If the claim is not filed within this time frame, it will be denied. Additionally, the Social Security Administration may require additional evidence to support a late claim, so it is important to make sure you provide as much evidence as possible when submitting your claim.
Mistake #2: Submitting Incomplete Forms
Another common mistake made by SSD applicants is submitting incomplete forms. The Social Security Administration requires that all forms be filled out completely and accurately. If any of the forms are not filled out correctly or are missing information, the claim may be denied. It is important to make sure that all of the forms are filled out correctly and that all of the required information is included.
Mistake #3: Ignoring the Deadline
Another mistake that applicants make is not paying attention to the deadline for submitting their claim. The Social Security Administration requires that all claims be submitted within a certain time frame. If the claim is not submitted within this time frame, it may be denied. It is important to make sure that you submit your claim on time in order to avoid having your claim denied.
Mistake #4: Not Following Up
The fourth most common mistake made by SSD applicants is not following up on their application. After submitting your claim, it is important to follow up with the Social Security Administration to make sure that your claim is being processed. If you do not follow up on your application, it may be denied due to a lack of information or other issues.
Mistake #5: Not Seeking Professional Help
The fifth mistake made by SSD applicants is not seeking professional help. It is important to have an experienced attorney or advocate to help you with the process of applying for SSD benefits. An experienced attorney or advocate can help you to understand the process and to make sure that all of the required forms are filled out correctly and that all of the necessary evidence is included.
Social Security Disability (SSD) is an essential resource for many Americans whose disabilities prevent them from working and supporting themselves. As such, having a successful SSD application is an important consideration for those in need of this crucial financial lifeline. While some claimants find it relatively easy to be approved for disability benefits, many others struggle to obtain their necessary assistance. This is often due to avoidable mistakes. Below are five deadly mistakes that, if made, can destroy your SSD case.
1. Not Submitting an Adequate Amount of Medical Evidence: It is vital to provide sufficient medical evidence to support your claim. This includes diagnoses, individualized assessments of current functional limitations, and treatment and medication history. Without this crucial evidence, the SSA has no way to assess your application.
2. Ignoring Deadlines: Overwhelming paperwork can often lead claimants to procrastinate on submitting applications or other paperwork. This is a huge mistake. Not only does missing deadlines mean delays in processing and receiving benefits, but it can often result in the denial of claims due to missed filing deadlines.
3. Not Consulting a Disability Lawyer: While it is not necessary to have a lawyer on board for every case, it is crucial to consider your legal options if your application is denied or if your disability is complex. Hiring an experienced disability lawyer can often lead to more expedient and successful applications, as well as necessary appeal settlements.
4. Not Understanding the Appeals Process: If your application is initially denied, it is important to understand your right to an appeal. This includes filing a Request for Reconsideration, attending a hearing, and filing an appeal. If not done correctly or in a timely manner, your appeal can be dismissed or denied.
5. Not Seeking Professional Financial Help: Too often, claimants struggle to make ends meet prior to getting disability benefits and find themselves overwhelmed with the thought of managing lump-sum backpayments. It is helpful to seek the advice of a financial professional who can advise claimants on how to best manage their benefits and investments.
In short, applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be complex and daunting process. However, by avoiding these five simple mistakes, and appropriately utilizing other popular options, you can raise your chance of success.
