If you have a long-term illness or medical condition, you may qualify for Social Security disability. Many individuals who apply for the benefits receive denials for numerous reasons that can be avoided or corrected. Knowing the rules for submitting an application to the Social Security Administration (SSA) will help you pursue your claim successfully.

3 Reasons for Denial of Applications for Social Security Disability 

1. Not Meeting the Disability Definition

To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must be totally disabled according to the SSA definition. Your medical condition must prevent you from doing work you did before or make it challenging to adjust to other work.

Additionally, your disability must have lasted or be expected to last at least 12 months continuously or result in death. However, many exceptions exist, and certain conditions qualify for quick approval, such as back injuries, depression, cancer, and liver and kidney diseases.

2. Earning Too Much Income

If you seek Social Security disability benefits while participating in substantial gainful activity that earns you money, the income must be below the monthly limits to avoid claim denial.

The limits change each year. As of 2021, the monthly limit is $1,310 if you aren't blind and $2,190 if you are. There are no limits on other forms of income, including investments and a spouse's assets.

3. Failing to Complete the Process

The SSA rejects incomplete applications, which can happen if individuals leave out information, fail to include their medical records, miss filing deadlines, or don't appear for their appointments. Hire an experienced Social Security disability attorney to ensure your application is properly completed and that you comply with all requests on time.

If you plan to apply for Social Security disability, turn to The Law Office of Peter T. Waltz in La Crosse, WI. Attorney Waltz and his team will help you navigate the process to help you obtain the disability benefits you need for a better quality of life. Get more information about their services online, or call (608) 784-2050 to schedule a free consultation.