Why Was My Social Security Disability Claim Denied?
In 2014 alone, Social Security Disability Insurance paid $141 billion in benefits to 9 million disabled workers and 2 million of their dependents. This may seem like a lot, but when you consider that about 12{163d132be0c33ef527548f598c16a5854f0363fa1b320787bb9017ebc72327da} of the population – or roughly 37 million Americans – are classified as disabled, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, you can quickly see that there is a bit of a discrepancy. The shocking reality is that one-third of all Social Security Disability claims are denied. In 2013, for example, more than 2.5 million applications were received, but less than 1 million were accepted.
If your Social Security Disability claim was denied, you only have one question on your mind. Why?
Common Reasons a Social Security Claim Might Be Denied
You Failed to Provide the Right Documentation
When it comes to filing a claim, you are going to need a ton of documentation – pay stubs, work history, applications for other disability benefits, medical history, and much more. Failure to provide the right documentation could result in your claim being denied.
Your Condition Isn’t Considered a Disability
In order to qualify for benefits, your condition must be considered a “disability” found under the Social Security Administration’s list of impairments. On top of that, your condition must have lasted (or be expected to last) for at least 12 months.
You Are Deemed Fit to Perform a Different Job
Even if you are unable to perform your previous job, you may be deemed fit to perform a different, but related job. If this is the case, your Social Security Disability claim may be denied.
You Don’t Have Enough Working Credits
The Social Security Administration calculates your work credits based on your age, the number of years you worked and thus paid into the Social Security system, and when you became disabled. Simply put, there is a minimum amount of time you must have worked to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance.
You Make Too Much Money
The Social Security Administration will review your monthly earnings when you apply. If you make more than $1,090 a month, there is a high likelihood that your Social Security Disability claim will be denied.
You Made an Error
A clerical error could be the reason your claim was denied. Yes, mistakes happen, but it is important to follow the guidelines exactly when filing your claim. This means providing the right documentation, as we said earlier, as well as being thorough, honest, and accurate in all of your explanations.
Remember, it is up to you to prove to the Social Security Administration that your disability leaves you with no other options. However, this does not mean you have to act alone. A qualified Social Security disability attorney will be able to walk you through application process and help you file your claim. And, in the event that your Social Security Disability claim is denied, a disability attorney can help you appeal the decision.
Finding a Social Security Disability Attorney in Maryland
Has your Social Security Disability claim been denied? If so, the disability lawyers at Jenkins, Block & Associates, P.C. are here to help. We are a member of The National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives and our attorneys have the knowledge and resources available to assist you in getting the benefits you deserve.
Contact an Attorney Today!
Please CALL US at 1-800-243-2439 to be directed to the closest Jenkins Block & Associates location to you. We employ over thirty people in four office locations throughout Maryland and Virginia.
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