Don’t panic if your Social Security Disability Claim was denied

It is easier said than done: don’t panic if you find out that your Social Security disability claim was denied.  With disability claims up 20 percent these days because of the recession, many more people are finding out that their claim was denied – but it doesn’t mean that you aren’t eligible for benefits.

Make sure you read the determination very carefully to find out why you were turned down.  In many cases, there is something fairly simple that you can do to strengthen your claim and get it through an appeal. 

What can you do to improve your chances on appeal?

• First of all DON’T GIVE UP.  If you really feel stuck, talk to a SSD claims attorney for help.
• Using your determination letter as a guide, provide any information that was missing in your original claim.
• Fully describe all aspects of your disability and how it affects your ability to work.  Some people assume that the claims examiner can figure it out on their own.  They can’t – you need to be very clear.
• Make sure your doctor provides information that backs up your claim, and make sure that your medical condition is actually covered by SSD.

Get more tips for your SSD claim in our law library article “Three Quick Tips for a Successful Social Security Disability Claim”.  Please contact our office if you’d like to talk to an experienced disability claims lawyer for no cost or obligation.