When you’re applying for Social Security disability benefits following an injury, there are a lot of factors to consider to ensure that your application is approved. Many people don’t realize exactly how many reasons there are for an application to be denied, leaving some unprepared for the possibility that they won’t receive their needed benefits.
If you want to guarantee that you receive the disability benefits that you so desperately need, it’s important that you’re aware of some of the reasons you might be denied. Here are five reasons your disability application might be denied and advice for hiring a Tampa disability benefits lawyer so you get the support you need.
Your Disability Isn’t Severe or Long Lasting
A common misconception when it comes to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits is that any disabling condition is eligible. On the contrary, Social Security only considers certain conditions qualifiable for benefits. Although there can be extenuating circumstances, for you to receive disability benefits your condition will need to either last for more than twelve months or potentially result in your death.
For example, most broken bone injuries do not qualify for disability benefits because they heal in less than a year. The length and severity of your injury will be a large factor in whether or not you are approved for SSDI.
You Make Too Much Money
SSDI is meant to support workers who are no longer able to perform meaningful work. While it is possible to continue working while receiving SSDI benefits, you can only earn a certain amount, which is called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). If you earn over the SGA limit—$1,130—then your application for disability benefits will be denied.
Before applying for your benefits, check to see if your income falls below the SGA threshold, and if so, then you will have a better chance of receiving your benefits.
Lack of Cooperation or Availability
A surprising amount of people applying for SSDI benefits are not fully aware of how complicated the application process is, resulting in another leading cause of a denied application: Lack of cooperation.
To determine whether your condition qualifies, Social Security will often request access to your medical records and may want you to receive an examination from a doctor of their choosing. If you don’t comply with these requests, your application will almost always be denied. Additionally, if Social Security cannot reach you then they will not be able to approve your application.
Your Disability is Caused by Addiction
Addiction, contrary to what most people may think, is not automatically disqualifying when you’re applying for disability benefits. It is entirely possible that you can receive SSDI while suffering from addiction. However, this is only true if your disabling condition is not caused by substance abuse. If Social Security determines that your disability is directly caused by addiction, then your application will be denied and you will not receive benefits.
Misrepresenting Your Condition
Unfortunately, it is common for people to misrepresent their level of ability when applying for SSDI benefits. While applying, be sure to be completely honest about both the extent of your condition and your ability to work. Should Social Security find that you have provided false information in an effort to receive benefits, your application will be denied and you may find yourself facing criminal prosecution.
Hire a Tampa Disability Benefits Lawyer
If you feel like you’ve been denied your SSDI benefits unfairly, then you need to consult with a Tampa disability benefits lawyer from the Disparti Law Group. Our attorneys have experience dealing with Social Security cases and we will help you fight for your benefits. Contact us today for more information.
