Common Mistakes Made While Filing For SSD
When filing for Social Security Disability (SSD), it is important that you fill out all forms thoroughly and accurately. Many claims for SSD are denied simply because the information an applicant provides is not complete or correct. The Plano Social Security Disability lawyers at the Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC, have worked with countless SSD applicants. Our attorneys know the necessary information to provide and ways to maximize your chances for an approved SSD claim.
Errors People Often Make When Filing For SSD
Receiving Unemployment Benefits While Applying For SSD.
Unemployment benefits and SSD benefits are two different programs with conflicting goals, and receiving the first while applying for the second can send mixed messages. Unemployment benefits are intended as support to help a person without a job make ends meet and get the resources necessary while looking for work. If you receive unemployment, the benefits are supposed to be temporary and help you find employment. On the other hand, SSD benefits are intended to replace work-related income when a person has a severe injury or condition that prevents them from working. Receiving unemployment – and communicating that you are actively looking for work – can be used to deny a claim.
Applying For SSD When You Make Too Much To Qualify.
There is an upper limit for the amount of work-related monthly income (currently $1,070) you can receive before applying for disability. If your income exceeds the upper limit, you will likely be denied benefits. In addition, your claim can be denied if the Social Security Administration (SSA) believes that you can work more hours than you are currently working.
Thinking A SSD Lawyer Will Be Too Expensive.
Typically, SSD lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that you do not pay unless they win your case. The SSA also has strict guidelines that SSD attorneys must follow when devising fee agreements with clients so that securing a lawyer will be an affordable process. Under an SSA-approved fee arrangement, there are generally limits to how much a lawyer can charge
Not Using A Lawyer With Knowledge Of SSD Or Not Using A Lawyer At All.
In order for a lawyer to be able to help you with filing SSD claims, you need an SSD attorney with experience in the process. While you can file for a claim on your own, you can very easily make a common mistake or oversight, but an SSD lawyer can help you meet the requirements.
Not Following Up On The Status Of Your SSD Claim.
It is important that anyone who files for SSD check on the status of their claim regularly. A client-focused SSD attorney can keep you in the loop and communicate regularly about your claim.
After You Receive Long-Term Disability, You Work With Insurance Company Lawyers To Fill Out Your Social Security Claim.
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance companies will often require you to apply for SSD benefits after you are approved for LTD. The insurance company is allowed to offset the LTD benefits by the amount of SSD benefits you receive, reducing their costs and the costs of premiums. If you work with lawyers from the insurance company on the SSD application, they may advise you to make certain decisions on your application that can affect your LTD claim.
Waiting Too Long To File For An Appeal.
If your claim has been denied, you only have 60 days from when you receive a denial letter to request an appeal hearing. If you do not meet this deadline, you may have to start over again and file a completely new claim.
Not Putting Mental Afflictions On Your SSD Application.
In addition to physical ailments, the SSA evaluates mental conditions when considering an application for SSD. It is important to include thorough medical information to have the best chance of receiving an approved claim.
Inadequate Preparation For Your Hearing.
When preparing for your SSD claim hearing, it is important to have complete and up-to-data medical records and statements from doctors. A skilled SSD attorney can make sure that everything is in order during this stage of the process.
Not Following Doctor’s Orders Or Seeing A Doctor.
Your best chance of getting SSD benefits is seeing a doctor who can document and assess your physical / mental ailments. The SSD process is much more difficult without a doctor to support your claims. If you are seeing a doctor, you should:
- Follow their recommendations
- Take all medications that they prescribe
Avoid Common Mistakes: Our Attorneys Can Help
At the Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC, the firm’s attorneys have handled more than 1000 cases across the country, primarily Social Security Disability claims. To learn how the firm’s SSD experience in the area may be able to assist you, please contact the Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC, today.
