Imagine spending months gathering medical records, filling out forms, and anxiously awaiting a decision on your Social Security disability claim, only to receive a denial letter. The Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) application process leaves room for errors that can derail your chances of receiving much-needed benefits.
At the law office of Phillip M. Hendry, we've helped countless clients with the challenging disability claims process. Our experienced Louisiana Social Security lawyer has seen firsthand how simple SSD application mistakes can lead to denied disability claims and delayed benefits. Here are five common errors to avoid when applying for SSDI benefits.
Mistake #1: Failing to Provide Sufficient Medical Evidence
One of the most critical components of a successful SSD claim is comprehensive medical documentation of your disabling condition. Many applicants fail to provide enough evidence to support their case, such as:
- Incomplete records. Submitting only partial medical records that don't paint a complete picture of your condition and its impact on your ability to work
- Outdated information. Relying on old medical records that don't reflect the current state of your health and functioning
- Lack of specificity. Providing general descriptions of symptoms without concrete examples of how they limit your daily activities and job performance
To avoid this mistake, gather all relevant medical records from your treating physicians, specialists, hospitals, and therapy providers. Ensure the information is current and includes specific details about your diagnosis, treatment, and limitations.
Mistake #2: Underestimating the Importance of Treatment Compliance
Social Security examiners look for evidence that you're actively pursuing treatment for your disabling condition. Failing to follow prescribed treatments or skipping doctor's appointments can undermine your credibility and lead to a denied claim. The SSA may assume that:
- Your condition isn't severe. If you're not consistently seeking medical care, the examiner might conclude that your impairment isn't as limiting as you claim.
- You're not committed to improving. Neglecting to follow through with recommended treatments suggests a lack of motivation to manage your condition and return to work, if possible.
- Alternative factors are at play. Noncompliance with treatment may raise suspicions that substance abuse or other unrelated issues are contributing to your inability to work.
Follow your prescribed treatment plan and attend all scheduled appointments whenever possible. If you face barriers to compliance, such as transportation issues or financial constraints, discuss these openly with your medical providers and disability attorney.
Mistake #3: Exaggerating or Minimizing Your Limitations
Be honest and accurate when describing how your condition affects your daily life and work abilities. Claimants sometimes make the mistake of overstating or downplaying their limitations, which can hurt their case. For example:
- Exaggerating symptoms. Embellishing the severity of your condition in an attempt to seem more disabled can backfire if the medical evidence doesn't support your claims.
- Minimizing limitations. Underreporting your struggles out of pride or fear of stigma can prevent the SSA from fully understanding the extent of your disability.
- Inconsistent statements. Contradicting yourself about your limitations in different parts of the application or during consultative examinations can undermine your credibility.
Try to provide a balanced, realistic picture of how your condition impacts your functioning. Keep a journal to document your symptoms, limitations, and treatment side effects to ensure consistency and accuracy in your application.
Mistake #4: Failing to Follow Up on Your Claim
The SSDI application process can be lengthy, with many claimants waiting several months for a decision. However, failing to follow up on the status of your claim can be a costly mistake. The SSA may need additional information or clarification, and missed deadlines can derail your application. Stay proactive:
- Check in regularly. Contact the SSA to ask about the status of your claim and ensure they have all the necessary information.
- Respond promptly. If the SSA requests additional documentation or schedules a consultative exam, respond quickly to keep your application moving forward.
- Update your information. Notify the SSA of any changes in your contact information, medical condition, or work status that may impact your claim.
Working with an experienced Louisiana Social Security lawyer can help you manage your claim and deal with any obstacles that arise during the process.
Mistake #5: Going It Alone
Perhaps the biggest mistake claimants make is applying for SSDI benefits without professional guidance. While it's possible to do it on your own, working with a knowledgeable disability attorney offers numerous advantages:
- Expertise. A skilled lawyer understands the system's nuances and can help you avoid common pitfalls that lead to denied claims.
- Assistance. From gathering medical evidence to preparing for appeals hearings, an attorney can handle the legwork and advocate for your rights.
- Objectivity. Living with a disability is emotionally and physically challenging. A lawyer provides an objective perspective and can help you make informed decisions about your claim.
At the law office of Phillip M. Hendry, we've helped numerous Louisiana residents secure the SSDI benefits they need and deserve. If you're overwhelmed by the application process or have received a denial, our dedicated Social Security lawyer is here to guide you. We can help you avoid costly mistakes and build the strongest possible disability claim.