Some people have medical challenges that are so extreme they cannot continue to work. A variety of different health challenges could affect someone’s career and their daily life. If they have previously worked a job for long enough, they may be able to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Even young adults and part-time employees make Social Security contributions that can help them qualify for benefits when they have disabling medical challenges.
Unfortunately, quite a few people who apply for SSDI benefits do not receive approval for their initial application. The Social Security Administration (SSA) rejects a large percentage of applicants every year. What happens after someone applies for benefits and receives a denial notice instead of an approval letter?
There are appeal options available
The good news for any worker coping with a medical issue that leaves them unable to work is that SSDI benefits can help cover basic cost-of-living expenses. Unfortunately, the standard to qualify for disability benefits is relatively high. Additionally, all it takes is a small mistake on the application paperwork to lead to a rejection instead of an approval notice.
Thankfully, the SSA offers a multi-stage appeals process to ensure fair consideration. Applicants denied benefits initially can correct mistakes in paperwork and obtain additional medical documentation. They can submit that information to the SSA for a reconsideration.
A reconsideration is an internal appeal where a different SSA employee reviews someone’s application. If that process isn’t successful, then the next stage of appeal involves going to court. An administrative law judge can review the documentation and additional evidence to determine if the SSA made a mistake by denying someone benefits.
Hearings and reconsideration represent the vast majority of modern appeals. A small but noteworthy percentage of applicants secure benefits during the appeals process. If neither reconsideration nor a hearing is effective, some people have additional appeal options available. They can take the matter to the Appeals Council or possibly even secure a hearing in federal court.
Applicants may have an easier time obtaining SSDI benefits if they obtain support throughout the process. Appealing, in particular, may require assistance. Those who have proper help and who understand the rules for SSDI benefits can improve their chances of making a successful benefits claim.