4 Common Mistakes When Filing For Social Security Disability
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides money and medical insurance for people who are unable to work due to a disability. However, the process has a lot of red tape and hoops to jump through. If you would like to know more before you file, check out these four common mistakes when filing for SSDI.
1. Including Incorrect Information
Everyone makes mistakes, but if you include any incorrect information in your SSDI claim, expect an issue. In some cases, they may simply request you to provide the correct information, but the claim can be denied. Common errors may include:
- Misspellings/typos
- Old contact information
- Discrepancies in the onset of disability
2. Failing to Include Necessary Information
Similarly, you can easily forget or neglect to include all the necessary information. Besides your personal information, contact information, and the type of disability, you need to prove your disability with medical records, notes, test results, treatments, etc.
You'll also need to thoroughly explain your condition without under or overexaggerating. On top of that, make sure to include how the disability interferes with your life and prevents you from working. Other information you'll need includes:
- Proof of long-term disability
- Existing and previous health conditions
- Income
- Work and education history
3. Refilling Instead of Appealing
If your claim gets denied unjustly, don't file a new claim. In fact, this can increase the risk of the claim getting denied again because the more SSDI denials you have, the more likely a claim will be denied in the future. Instead, file an appeal and include all the necessary and correct information.
4. Not Hiring an Attorney
You can reduce your risk of a denial by hiring an attorney to help you file your claim, and you don't need to wait until a claim gets denied to hire an attorney. An attorney better understands the required information and what will give you the best chances of having your claim approved.
SSDI attorneys usually don't get paid until your claim is approved. Once approved, you get a lump sum payment for retroactive payments, and the attorney takes a portion. Therefore, if your claim is never approved, you may not have to pay a dime.
If you qualify for SSDI, don't file alone. An attorney can boost your chances of having your first claim approved. If you would like to know more or you want a consultation, contact a Social Security Disability attorney in your area today.
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