Are you filing for Social Security Disability? Watch out – over half of all applicants are denied on their first filing. Avoid the appeal process by making sure you don’t make these three common mistakes when filing your paperwork.
1) Lack of Medical Documentation
Many applicants believe they can file for disability and the government will then assist them in obtaining it. In actuality, you must have a medical reason and be prepared to support your claim with valid evidence. While you may be under the care of a doctor and have a real reason to file for disability, you can’t expect your doctor to have detailed medical records for a disability application ready without proper preparation.
2) Exceeding Income Requirements
Injured workers are not eligible to receive disability if their income exceeds a certain amount. Document your income and make sure you’re not making more than what is allowed before filing your application.
3) Missing Deadlines
The disability process has a very strict timetable. Once you submit an application, it’s important you stay in contact with your case manager and answer questions in a timely manner. Many applicants are denied for reasons as small as forgetting to turn paperwork in on time.
Proper Planning Increases Your Chance of Getting Approved
Remember, once your first application is denied, you have to go through the appeal process, even if the denial was due to a simple mistake. Plan accordingly, and consider having a social security disability lawyer review your application prior to submission.