Greenville SSDI Denials Lawyer
It is not at all uncommon for an initial claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to be denied. It is actually more likely that an initial claim for SSDI benefits will be denied rather than approved. If your application has been denied, a Greenville SSDI denials lawyer may be able to help you appeal this decision and achieve a positive outcome.
Although retaining a lawyer is not required to handle an SSDI denial, it can be advantageous to have a knowledgeable professional on your side. The rules governing SSDI eligibility are strict and intricate. Denials can be based on slight technicalities that an experienced SSDI lawyer typically will be able to identify and address.
Understanding SSDI Denials
After an application for SSDI benefits is submitted to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the file will be reviewed and either an approval or denial of benefits will be issued. Unfortunately, being unable to work because of a medical condition does not in itself guarantee eligibility for SSDI benefits. A variety of factors will be considered in making this determination. Approval or denial for SSDI benefits is very fact specific and will be decided on a case by case basis.
Lack of Medical Evidence
One of the most common reasons claims for SSDI benefits are denied is that there was insufficient medical evidence to support a disability. An individual must suffer from a serious disability to be eligible for SSDI benefits. Evidence that is insufficient to demonstrate that a disability will last at least a year or result in death will likely result in a denial.
Individuals should submit thorough medical records documenting their condition to avoid a denial. Often times a physician’s notes in a patient file fail to address how a disability has impacted their ability to work.
Individuals who have been denied SSDI may want to consider gathering additional medical records or having a more in-depth conversation with their physician about the impact their disability is having on their work life. Evidence showing that a patient has failed to comply with medical advice for treatment may also be a contributing factor to a denial. However, a skilled Greenville SSDI denials lawyer could examine a person’s case and help determine effective legal solutions that may be applicable.
Insufficient Work History
SSDI benefits are unique from other disability benefits in that they require an individual to demonstrate a substantial work history. Although a work history is not required to receive other disability benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it is a fundamental requirement to receive SSDI.
This is because SSDI is not a need-based system. Recipients must have contributed to the Social Security system for several years. Individuals who have never entered the workforce will be denied SSDI eligibility. On the contrary, if an individual is still working and earning more than what is considered substantial gainful activity, they will also be exposed to a denial.
Other Reasons for Denials
The most common reasons for SSDI denials are lack of medical evidence and work history, but there are other reasons a claim may be denied including:
- Evidence of fraud
- Previous denials
- Failure to cooperate with the SSA
- Incomplete forms
- Alcoholism or drug addiction
- Incarceration
What to Do After Receiving a Denial in Greenville
Just because an individual was initially issued a denial does not mean that they will never be able to collect SSDI benefits. Being denied benefits can be frustrating, but there is an opportunity to appeal this decision. Seeking the advice of an experienced Greenville SSDI denials attorney could help to provide insight as to why a denial was issued and the likelihood of success on appeal. It is important to take action as soon as possible after receiving a notice of denial from the Social Security Administration as there are time limits for appealing SSDI denials.
Speak with a Greenville SSDI Denials Attorney
Do not be discouraged if you were initially denied SSDI benefits. If you are interested in speaking with a Greenville SSDI denials lawyer about how to proceed in your case, please call today. The sooner you reach out to an attorney, the sooner they could review your denial and determine what your options could be.
