Social Security Disability benefits can be a financial lifesaver if you suffer from a medical condition that leaves you unable to work. That said, these benefits aren’t automatically recoverable. Instead, you’ll have to prove that you qualify for them, which means demonstrating that you meet eligibility requirements for your qualifying condition and showing that you have the appropriate work history.
Sounds easy enough, right? Truth be told, the process can be more complicated than you think. However, you can increase your chances of success by avoiding some of the common pitfalls that frequently trip applicants up during this process.
Common mistakes to avoid when pursuing SSD benefits
Preparation is key to your claim. This means that you need to anticipate some of the challenges that you might face with your case and figure out how to overcome them. This includes addressing common mistakes seen in the disability claims process. This includes each of the following common pitfalls:
- Inadequate medical records: Your medical history is going to play a huge role in your case. You’ll need to demonstrate not only the existence and persistence of your medical condition but also the treatments that you’ve received and their effectiveness. If the Social Security Administration finds that your records are lacking, then your claim will likely be denied.
- Incomplete employment records: Part of your benefits analysis is going to be on your work history and your ability to work. The government will also consider if you’re making too much money to qualify for benefits. Therefore, you’ll need to be sure to submit pay stubs and W-2 forms along with your employment history if you want to stand a chance of recovering benefits. Make sure that you’re being as thorough as possible here.
- Misunderstanding how disability is defined: Although there are some similarities in the disability requirements that have to be shown in every case, how disability is defined for you is also going to depend on your specific medical condition. You have to understand how your condition qualifies as a disability before moving forward with your claim so that you can tailor your evidence to demonstrate that you meet federal requirements.
- Improperly navigating a consultative medical evaluation: During the claims process you’ll probably be required to submit to a consultative medical evaluation. If you don’t know how to navigate this process, then you could inadvertently subject yourself to unnecessary testing that puts your claim in jeopardy. You certainly don’t want that to happen.
- Filing a claim too early: For most qualifying conditions, you have to demonstrate that your injury or illness is expected to last for at least 12 months. This is going to take some time to prove, as you’ll need medical evidence to support your position. If you file your disability claim too early, then, it may be quickly denied.
Build the strongest case possible under your circumstances
As you can see, there are a lot of moving parts to a disability claim. And the process is riddled with obstacles that you have to overcome if you want to successfully obtain the benefits that you need.
That’s why as you prepare to move forward with your case you may want to reach out to an attorney for guidance.