After waiting for months for a decision on your Social Security Disability claim, the last thing you want to receive is a letter saying that your claim was denied. Unfortunately, it happens frequently, even to people who are genuinely disabled.
While reasons for a denial can vary greatly, there are some that top the list. If you’re about to apply for Social Security Disability, take note of these particular problems and what you can do to overcome them.
1. You don’t cooperate with the disability examiner.
Even if you find it frustrating, you have to make yourself available for questions from the disability examiner assigned to your case. If you don’t respond to letters and phone calls, your claim is likely to be denied.
Keep your phone number and address updated, no matter how long the process takes, and return all contact promptly.
2. You don’t go to a consultative exam.
If a disability examiner asks if you are willing to go to a consultative exam with an independent physician, that’s code for “there isn’t enough evidence in your file to approve your claim.” Refuse to go, and you’ll likely get denied.
Make yourself available for any consultative exam that’s scheduled. If you aren’t comfortable seeing a strange doctor on your own, take a family member or friend with you to the appointment to witness the interaction.
3. You aren’t following your doctor’s orders.
If your physician has made recommendations to help improve your health, you’re obligated to follow them if you want to be approved for Social Security Disability.
Even if you absolutely believe the doctor’s recommendations are pointless, demonstrate your willingness to get well by going to therapy, taking your medication as prescribed and keeping your follow-up appointments.
4. You give incomplete information.
There’s a lot of paperwork that goes along with a disability claim, but you can’t afford to skip any of it. Incomplete or overly-brief answers regarding the extent of your limitations and your work duties can lead to an unnecessary denial.
If you need help filing a disability claim, a Social Security Disability attorney can guide you through the process.