3 Reasons Your Social Security Disability Claim May Be Denied

Social Security Disability income (SSDI) provides benefits for wage earners who have become disabled for a variety of reasons, including chronic illness and accidents. It's a financial and medical lifeline for many -- but it isn't easy to win approval on a claim. In fact, a huge number of claims are denied when they're first filed. Getting a denial can put you on a long journey through numerous appeals -- each lengthier than the one before. If you understand these common reasons claims get denied, however, you may be able to avoid that fate:

1. You don't have enough medical evidence to support your claim

The reality is that medical tests don't show everything there is to know about the human body. Instead, SSDI claims examiners often have to rely on your doctor's records about your symptoms, your doctor's observations, and your treatment history for proof.

Here's the thing: If you don't mention a limitation caused by your condition, your doctor won't write it down. You can't expect the SSDI claims examiner to make guesses about how your back injury keeps you from sleeping and interferes with your ability to concentrate -- you have to spell it out for your medical providers and make certain that your complaints are documented.

2. You don't cooperate fully with the SSDI claims examiner

Many people who file SSDI claims feel like they are being forced to "jump through hoops" to get the benefits they deserve. You may have to endure numerous requests for documents about your illness or medical treatments. You may have to go to consultative examinations with strange doctors who are paid by the government to evaluate your condition, and more.

As frustrating as it can be, failing to comply with the requests made by Social Security is almost always likely to result in a denied claim. 

3. You haven't tried your doctor's recommended course of treatment

Sometimes a disability claim will be denied because the disabled person doesn't appear to be doing everything he or she can to overcome his or her disabling condition. This is particularly true when a doctor makes recommendations for physical therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes and you don't follow through.

Even if you suspect that the physical therapy won't help you or the medication is useless, you need to demonstrate as much by trying the treatment anyhow. Otherwise, Social Security will simply assume that you could get better if you tried.

Naturally, these aren't the only obstacles you may face in your claim for benefits. Don't risk a denial. Try visiting sites where a Social Security Disability attorney can help answer your questions.