When you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), one thing you should know is that there is a high chance that your claim could be denied – at least initially. That denial doesn’t necessarily mean that you don’t deserve to have disability benefits. It just means that there is something on that form or in your documentation that isn’t quite right.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) sees a significant amount of SSDI fraud, which is why it is so tough on applicants. That said, getting a denial notice doesn’t mean the SSA thinks you’re committing fraud. It just means that you need to provide more documentation and take a second look at the application you submitted.
What should you do if your application is denied?
When you receive the denial letter, you will have the chance to appeal. To appeal your SSDI claim, you should follow the instructions on the letter, which will give you more information on what the SSA found wrong with the application.
There are four levels of appeal that you can go through including:
- Reconsideration
- A review by the Appeals Council
- A federal court review
- A hearing with an administrative judge
When you’re appealing an SSDI appeal, it’s important for you to back up your argument and to provide more proof of your condition, such as medical documentation, photographs and more. You also may want to get new test results or updated letters from medical providers or others. Legal guidance can also be very helpful in appealing your denial and obtaining the benefits you need.
