Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), core components of the country’s Social Security system, provide crucial financial lifelines for individuals with severe disabilities and health conditions to live independently. Experienced Disability Attorneys in Dallas know how to present your medical documentation thoroughly and demonstrate to the Social Security Administration (SSA) how your impairing condition prevents you from performing work and how it interferes with your ability to function daily.
There are specific mistakes you should avoid to boost your chances of winning your Social Security disability case. These mistakes include:
Failure To File For Disability Benefits As Soon As You Are Disabled
Applicants for Social Security disability benefits face long wait times amid a record backlog of applications. The date you apply for disability benefits is critical because the SSA will pay you back benefits for up to one year before your application date. So, if you are disabled on January 1, 2020, but file for disability benefits on January 1, 2024, you would only receive back benefits starting from January 1, 2023.
Once you are no longer able to work because of your disability, there is no reason to wait. Filing a claim will establish a “date of onset”. This is the date you claim on which you became disabled in your application. The date of onset will determine how much back pay you are entitled to once you are approved.
Non-adherence To Treatment Recommendations Of Your Treating Doctors
One of the leading reasons for the denial of Social Security benefits is the failure to follow the treatment prescribed by your treating doctor. If you fail to follow the treatment prescribed to you by your doctors, the SSA will deny your claim for disability benefits. The main reason for this denial is that the SSA will not be able to determine whether your condition prevents you from being able to work or it’s your unwillingness to cooperate with the treatment prescribed.
Regular healthcare visits and check-ups strengthen the authenticity and credibility of your claim. The SSA wants to ensure that you are doing everything you can to improve your condition. If you stray from your prescribed treatment, you could face an outright denial.
Failure To Provide A Complete History Of Your Employment
Your work history should include not only the names, addresses, and phone numbers of your current and previous employers but also attendance records and performance evaluations.
The length of time you need to have worked to qualify for SSDI benefits will vary depending on your age. The SSA quantifies your work history in terms of work credits. You acquire credits for paying social security taxes on your income.
Reluctance To Hire A Disability Lawyer
Many deserving disability applicants face denials for incomplete applications or insufficient medical documentation. An experienced disability benefits attorney will fill out your application form accurately, collect evidence, and meet strict SSA deadlines to boost your chances of getting a successful approval.
Failure To Provide Accurate Personal And Contact Information
You should exercise great care when filling out your application for disability benefits. Errors in your claim, and the information contained in it being vague and inaccurate can lead to you being denied benefits. Attention to every detail is vital. If the SSA Is unable to reach you, your claim could be denied. If you are hard to get hold of for some reason, provide the SSA with alternate reliable ways to contact you.
Contact A Disability Attorney In Dallas
At Chermol And Fishman our disability lawyers know how to collect records, complete lengthy application forms, and work through the appeals process, if necessary. Our law firm can handle all communications with the SSA on your behalf and keep track of the SSA deadlines to avoid unnecessary delays. Contact us today to schedule a free claim review.