Denied a SSI Claim? We'll Fight For You
Claims made to the Social Security Administration (SSA) for benefits are commonly denied. The government’s own statistics show a denial rate above 50 percent. This is the unfortunate consequence of a dealing with a government institution that feels remote, unknowable, and in which you feel you have little control. After an initial denial, many people give up, taking no for an answer much too easily.
What Do You Do After You SSI Claim is Denied?
A denial from the SSA does not have to be the end of the road. You have the right to request an appeal. Generally, you have 60 days from the date of your denial to do so. To dramatically increase your chances for approval, we strongly urge you to bring in an attorney who is experienced in handling Social Security claims and appeals and to continue seeing your medical professionals. At The Gil Law Firm, we can represent you in any level of appeal ensuring that you have a strong case that is well documented and substantiated.
How Claims Get Denied
If you were not represented by an attorney in filing your initial application, you may not understand why your claim was denied in the first place.
Common reasons why a claim is denied can include:
- Mistakes or omissions in filling out the paperwork
- Failing to provide complete and adequate medical documentation
- Failing to provide a complete work record/history
- You stopped seeing your doctor(s) so it is presumed that your condition has improved or been handled
- It is presumed that you are not so disabled as to be unable to perform some type of work
- You claimed to have a mental disorder that may need further and significant documentation by mental health specialists
- Your condition is a subjective one, such as chronic pain or fatigue without medical substantiation
- You make too much in monthly income
- You failed to follow whatever treatment was prescribed
Four levels of appeal are available after an initial denial. These include requesting a reconsideration, requesting a hearing with an administrative law judge, a review by the Appeals Council, or, as a final resort, a review in federal court. At each appeal stage, our firm will work diligently to put together thorough and proper documentation to back up your claim for benefits and to otherwise prepare your case for a strong position.
