3 Tips After Your Social Security Disability Claim Is Denied
Social security disability insurance exists so that eligible workers can receive financial compensation if they become disabled and can no longer work. Having your social security disability claim approved means that you will begin receiving monthly paychecks from the government, easing the financial pressure of disability-related unemployment. Unfortunately, an average of 65% of social security disability claims are denied the first time around. Here are three tips to follow if this happens to you:
Continue to Receive Medical Treatment
It is very important to continue seeking medical treatment during the social security disability claim process. This is not only the best thing to do for your health, but also demonstrates that you are doing what you can to seek treatment for your disability and possibly recover. Schedule regular doctor appointments and be reliable about attending them.
If your doctor refers you to a specialist or physical therapist, be proactive in following up and attending these appointments as well. Keep track of all your appointments and any progress you make in a journal or computer document.
Gather all Medical Documentation
One of the biggest reasons that social security disability claims are denied is due to insufficient or incomplete medical documentation. Request copies of all of your medical records relating to your disability well ahead of any court appearances or meetings with disability caseworkers. Keep all of your documentation neatly organized and easy to sort through. Ask your primary care physician or specialist for a letter on official letterhead stating that your disability is serious enough to prevent you from working, and that you are seeking regular treatment.
Hire an Experienced Social Security Disability Attorney
The best thing you can do for your social security disability case is to hire an experienced social security attorney. The appeals process is complicated and time-consuming, and one mistake on your documentation could lead to another denial. Your attorney has the expertise to accurately and quickly file all paperwork and keep the ball rolling. In most cases, social security disability lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you will only pay for their services if your claim is approved and you begin receiving disability payments.
Instead of giving up after your social security disability claim is denied, follow these tips to ensure you get the compensation you are entitled to. Working with an experienced social security disability attorney will help make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
