If you’re thinking of applying for social security disability benefits, you should take some time to learn about the application process and what you can do to prepare. The frustrating reality is that the government is not willing or equipped to help you apply, and they don’t make the process easy. You must arm yourself with facts and come prepared with ample evidence of your disability to get the benefits you deserve.
There are several common mistakes people make when filing a disability claim, and making these missteps can cost you a lot of time and money. Avoid these critical mistakes to reduce your chance of having your disability claim denied:
Not providing enough information about your disability and history
Social security disability claims can take a long time to process because of the large amount of paperwork and due diligence involved in fact-checking your claim. During the process, you will need to provide detailed information about your medical history, work history, and why you are limited because of your injury or illness. It’s critically important to keep records of your doctor visits and any documents from your current or former employer.
Providing inaccurate or falsified information
Navigating social security disability paperwork is overwhelming for most people, because it contains language and “legal-ese” that many are not familiar with. Because of this, some people will provide inaccurate or falsified information, either intentionally or unintentionally. When you supply inaccurate information to the Social Security Administration, you drastically increase the risk of having your claim denied, and it may be more difficult for you to appeal.
Exaggerating the extent of your disability
You will be required to provide medical records to prove your level of disability. Do not try to exaggerate the extent of your illness or injury, or falsify your medical records. The Social Security Administration will do a thorough investigation into your health history and records provided by your doctor.
Minimizing the extent of your disability
It may shock you to think anyone would downplay their illness or injury, but it’s more common than you might realize. It’s difficult to adjust to having a disability, and some people may try to minimize the effect that it has on them because they feel like a burden to others, or that they don’t really need help. Try to be kind to yourself and understand there is help for you. If you are suffering with a disability, there is assistance meant to assist you and it’s important that you go through the steps to receive disability benefits.
Not going to the doctor on a regular basis
Accurate and up to date medical records play a large part in assessing your disability claim. Before you apply and during the application process it’s important that you continue to see your doctor so that they can document your current condition. If you don’t visit a doctor, your claim may be denied because the SSA will assume you were not actively trying to improve your condition.
Disability claims are often granted on the basis that you have made steps to improve your medical condition, but because of reasons due to the disability, you cannot return to work in the future. For this reason, you need to continue to see your doctor so that you can prove you have tried to overcome the illness or injury.
Missing an appeal deadline after your disability claim is denied
Sadly, many disability claims are denied on the first try and it can be discouraging for people who badly need disability benefits. For residents of Spokane or Washington State, you have 30 days to file an appeal after your disability claim is denied. If you miss a deadline you may have to start all over again. This is why it is critically important to hire a skilled disability attorney who can quickly file your appeal on your behalf. Marken Law Group can file your appeal for free. We don’t get paid unless your disability claim is approved! Call us at 509-879-4626 or contact us now.
How to win your social security disability case
Winning your social security disability claim largely boils down to these key factors:
- Keeping accurate, up to date medical records
- Providing verifiable proof of your disability
- Scheduling regular visits to see your doctor
- Meeting all filing deadlines
And most importantly, hire an experienced SSD attorney to help you file your claim and fight for your benefits!
Remember: we don’t get paid unless your disability claim is approved!
Contact us today to get the benefits you deserve. We guarantee to respond within 24 hours, and offer convenient weekday and after hours appointments.
Text or Call 509-879-4626