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Increase Your Chances Of Approval When Filing An SSD Claim

Cutter Hall Karlock, LLC April 19, 2017

Millions of people in Ohio and the rest of the United States suffer physical or mental illnesses and injuries that prevent them from working. Perhaps you’re one of many who will file an SSD claim for benefits in the near future. Sadly, the Social Security Administration denies many such claims. Some, however, finally get the benefits they need after going through an often-lengthy appeals process or, in certain situations, litigation.

Studies show that in recent years, only about one fourth of those who file SSD claims collect benefits on their initial claims. Another two percent receive benefits after filing appeals, and more than 10 percent have to request hearings before they get the benefits they need.

Ways to avoid SSD claim denial

You might ask what difference the process makes if you wind up getting benefits either way. Compare the idea to preparing a field for planting, spreading seeds, watering, weeding and caring for crops as they grow, then, finally, after much time and effort, gathering a harvest, to going to a local farmer’s market and purchasing the same crops. The latter is typically a lot easier and less time consuming. The following ideas may help expedite the claims process and decrease the chances of denial:

  • Medical records are crucially important; you first need to seek medical care to obtain official documentation regarding your condition and care. Officials deny many claims when those filing fail to produce adequate proof of appropriate medical attention.

  • It’s typically best to be proactive in your own claims process. Make phone calls and communicate through whatever means necessary to make sure records and other pertinent documents get to the right people.

  • In general, collecting unemployment benefits may negatively impact your SSD claim. Those who collect unemployment attest to their ability and willingness to work. This obviously presents a conflict of interest where SSD is concerned.

  • Researching eligibility requirements and making sure you can fulfill them before filing your claim may save lot of time and prevent much stress down the line.

It’s sometimes possible to collect retroactive benefits if you file an appeal and win. However, most Ohio residents unable to work would rather obtain the benefits they need on their first attempts in the SSD claims process. If you have questions regarding whether you qualify, there are resources available to assist you.

An attorney who knows the ins and outs of the Social Security Disability system would provide you with a valuable resource as you attempt to navigate the system.