Most Common Social Security Disability Application Mistakes

As we here at Jones Brown Law PLLC. have discussed in other posts, the entire Social Security disability application process is a challenging undertaking, and being approved for benefits can be equally as challenging. Approval rates vary depending on the state in which you reside, but the national statistics show that an average of 36% of applicants are approved for benefits nationwide.

So, when you consider that 64% of initial applicants are denied, following the Social Security Administration’s application guidelines is so very important. If you are denied, you can appeal your initial denial by filing a request for reconsideration. Unfortunately, this reconsideration appeal has the lowest approval rate of all disability case levels with a national average of only 13.8%. There are many people within our society that are out to defraud and take advantage of the system and this leads to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) stringent guidelines regarding disability benefits approval. You need a professional, experienced attorney like Eric Brown by your side to assist you through this tough application process.

Application Detail and Accuracy Counts

There are countless reasons that your claim for disability benefits may be denied, but on the other hand, there are changes that you could make to your claim that could increase your odds of being approved. Most people fail to complete the application form in detail. You cannot leave any blanks on your application. You must be as descriptive as possible, and explain precisely how your life has been impacted by your condition, illness or injury.

You must describe in full detail just how your medical condition has impacted your life and just how much your daily activities have changed. For example, if you used to take your children fishing but now you can’t even walk without an assistive device or stand under your own power for more than a few minutes, that should be included in your application.

Helping Hand

Documentation is Your Key to Success

Properly documenting your condition and including any and all appropriate and relevant evidence is essential in proving your case to the SSA. All of  your medical records should be included, such as: 

  • Doctor visit notes

  • Physician notes

  • Documentation regarding limitations and restrictions

  • Test results

  • Therapy and treatment plans and their results

  • Surgical notes

  • Prescription records and any side effects from the medication

  • How your condition has progressed

  • How you are affected by any symptoms you suffer from your medical condition. 

Medical evidence is the main necessity in proving the severity of your condition and how it has negatively impacted your daily life and your activities.

This is the crucial step where applicants fail. Remember, you cannot provide too much information. When it comes to medical records, overkill is a must. 

Having the Legal Support You Need

If you are seeking disability benefits, the benefits of having an experienced and professional attorney like Eric Brown is a necessity. Applicants who are represented by a lawyer are much more likely to be awarded disability benefits. Eric not only knows the ins and outs of the SSA’s daunting application process, but he also will make sure your application is completed in detail, you have all your medical records and supporting documentation in order, and that you have provided everything that is needed to prove to the Disability Determination Services that you are unable to work and you are fully disabled.

The Administrative Law Judge Hearing

The next step in an SSA Disability Claim is a hearing that takes place before an administrative law judge. The judge will decide whether you meet the SSA’s criteria for being considered disabled. This is the stage where an experienced attorney such as Eric Brown can be beneficial by preparing you for the hearing and providing you with the support needed when you appear before the judge. Your attorney will draw your testimony out by asking you questions along with the judge.

Filing for Social Security Benefits is something you can do on your own, but the problem is that over 65% of initial applications get denied. You have to have the correct paperwork and full documentation so you can stand out from the crowd. If you are missing one doctor’s form or one signature, you can easily be denied. We are here to help fill in all the missing pieces and to make sure you get the benefits you deserve. CLICK HERE to contact Eric Brown.