The Most Common Reasons For SSD Denial
If you are applying for Social Security Disability, there are some common reasons why the Social Security Administration may deny your application. Be aware that the rules for Social Security Disability are very stringent and you must thoroughly prepare to comply with all the requirements.
- Lack of documentation or evidence: The most common reason for denial is a lack of supporting medical information. You must submit as much documentation from doctor visits and any accompanying testing to determine if your medical condition is severe enough to be considered a disability by the SSA. If you refuse to give any required information, the agency may deny your request for benefits. There may not be enough medical evidence to support your claim. If your medical condition is not among what is listed as acceptable conditions, you need additional medical evidence to show you deserve these benefits.
- Less than 12 months of disability: Another reason for denial could be that your medical condition may not last at least 12 months. Social Security does not pay for partial or short-term disabilities.
- Disability connected to drugs or alcohol: The SSA may deny your disability benefits if there is not enough evidence that your disability would continue without the presence of drugs or alcohol.
- Income too high: Denial might happen because you receive too much income. This means that if you are working at the time you apply, and you make more money than what is allowed for a disability, the SSA might not let you have these benefits. In 2024, the amount is $1,550 per month, but this total changes from year to year.
- Lack of communication: When applying for these benefits, you must be available for the SSA to contact you. The agency expects to reach you for any questions staffers may have or to schedule appointments for tests and examinations. Failure to have contact may lead to a claim denial.
- Noncompliance with doctors’ orders: While being treated by your physicians, if you do not comply with your doctor’s orders, you may also risk denial or cessation of disability payments. These treatments may include prescribed medication, any physical therapy or scheduled surgeries.
- Allegations of fraud or another crime: Fraud is a serious accusation, and it is not taken lightly by the Social Security Administration. Although fraud constitutes only a small amount of payments given, the administration prosecutes these cases to “the highest degree of the law.” If you have been convicted of a crime, the SSA discontinues disability benefits. This also applies if you have an outstanding warrant or have violated parole.
If the agency denied your benefits once before, there is a good chance that you may be denied again. About 60% of first-time claims are denied. Knowing why you were denied is imperative in order to move on with the process.
Contact A New York SSD Lawyer For More Information About Denials
The process of filing for disability benefits can be frustrating and confusing. At the Law Offices of Daniel Berger, we are here to help. Please call us at 718-691-7475 or send us an email and get your disability application back on track.