Was your disability claim denied recently? Not receiving pay following an injury can be an incredibly stressful experience — however, by knowing why disability claims are denied, you can better prepare yourself for filing an appeal and any future claim submissions. Although there are many reasons for denied claims, let’s examine and review why most disability claims are denied.
There’s a Lack of Evidence
One of the major reasons why most disability claims are denied is because they do not sufficiently prove that the applicant is unable to work. Medical records, doctor’s notes, clinical findings and results, and other documentation are crucial forms of objective evidence that demonstrate a person is not capable of working. Applicants who cannot provide enough physical evidence to back their situation can have their claim denied.
In some cases, you may not have sufficient documentation of your pain, even if you did see a doctor. If you never actively discussed how your disability is impairing your work life, then your care provider will not write it down in their report. Without this information, it will become harder to have your claim approved.
Your Earnings Are Too High
SSI benefits are intended for those who are unable to work and sustain their livelihood. This means that if you continue to work with your injury and earn too much money, then you likely won’t be eligible for benefits anymore. One of the reasons why disability claims are denied is because of their high income, which can serve as proof that the applicant is too disabled to work.
The social security administration will only accept disability claims for people who are unable to work, meaning that a claim can be denied if you make enough money to support yourself. However, you can continue to work a little when applying for SSDI so long as it does not surpass the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit.
A Previous Denial
When your disability claim is denied, then you need to file for an appeal to have any chance of overturning the decision. Some individuals decide to instead submit an entirely new application in hopes that it might be accepted — unfortunately, this is another reason why disability claims are denied. Choosing to submit a new application can increase the chances it’s denied, as the individual reviewing your claim will notice that you were previously denied benefits. Avoid the hassle of dealing with a second denied disability claim and pursue an appeal instead.
Not Following Advised Treatment
After becoming disabled, it’s in your best interests to remain in the regular care of a physician. Not only is this beneficial for your health, but it will help your claim as well.
However, if you don’t follow your doctor’s disability treatments or have gaps in your medical care, then it can raise the chances your disability claim will be denied. The reason this is why disability claims are denied is because it’s harder to identify whether or not a person is disabled if they are not willing to receive treatment for their injuries.
Even if you do not believe you’re making any progress, it’s best to continue attending your regular appointments anyway. With that said, there may be a good reason why you’re opting not to follow your doctor’s treatment. In such circumstances, a disability attorney can help explain why you chose not to adhere to the prescribed treatment during the appeal process.
No Matter Why Your Disability Claims Are Denied, You Can Count on RMS Law for Professional Assistance
If you’re searching for professional short and long-term disability lawyers in Philadelphia, RMS Law will be there to assist you. Our long and short-term disability lawyers have years of experience helping people like you file and appeal their claims, meaning you can trust us with your case every step of the way. For more information and to schedule a consultation, call RMS Law today.