Applying for Social Security Disability (SSDI) can be a lifeline for individuals unable to work due to a disabling condition. However, the process is stringent, and many claims are denied for avoidable reasons. At Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the complexities of SSDI claims. Here are the top reasons your claim could be denied—and how to avoid them.
1. You’re Still Working
SSDI is designed for individuals who cannot engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a disability. Your claim will be denied if you work full-time or earn above the SGA threshold.
Pro Tip: If unsure whether your work status disqualifies you, consult an experienced SSDI attorney to evaluate your situation.
2. You Don’t Have Enough Work Credits
To qualify for SSDI, you need sufficient work credits earned based on your taxable income. Generally, you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability.
The number of credits required depends on your age:
- Age 44: 22 credits (5.5 years of work)
- Age 46: 24 credits (6 years of work)
- Age 50: 28 credits (7 years of work)
If you don’t meet these requirements, you may not be eligible for SSDI benefits.
3. Your Medical Evidence is Insufficient
To qualify for SSDI, you must prove that your condition meets the SSA’s strict definition of disability:
- Your condition prevents you from engaging in SGA.
- It is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- It is supported by objective medical evidence from your doctor.
Social Security refers to Listings, a comprehensive list of medical and psychological conditions they use to determine whether you will qualify for SSDI> There is no clear answer, but the closest thing you’ll find is the Social Security Blue Book.
The Blue Book is not to be confused with Social Security’s Compassionate Allowances (CAL) program, although both list conditions that, by definition, meet Social Security’s disability standard. The CAL program designates conditions to get you an expedited ruling on an SSDI or SSI claim. The Blue Book sets out criteria for considering a condition as disabling, not speeding up the process.
Common Mistakes When Filing for Disability:
- Failing to provide updated medical records.
- Not seeing a doctor consistently or following prescribed treatments.
Solution: Keep regular appointments, follow your treatment plan, and ensure your medical evidence is thorough.
4. Errors in Your Application
The SSA has strict rules for completing and submitting your application. Common pitfalls include:
- Incomplete or inaccurate forms.
- Missing deadlines.
- Ignoring SSA requests for additional information, such as attending a medical exam.
Pro Tip: Even small mistakes can derail your claim. An SSDI attorney can help you review and perfect your application to avoid these issues.
5. You Missed Deadlines During the Appeals Process
If your initial claim or (in Florida) Reconsideration applications are denied (as many are), you have 60 days to file an appeal. Missing this deadline will result in forfeiting your claim unless you can show good cause for the delay.
The appeals process includes:
- Reconsideration.
- Disability hearing before an administrative law judge.
- Appeals Council review.
- Filing a federal lawsuit if necessary.
How to Avoid These Pitfalls
Navigating the SSDI process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, we’ve been helping clients t throughout Florida for decades. Our team can:
- Review your eligibility and work credits.
- Ensure your application is complete and error-free.
- Help gather the medical evidence you need to support your claim.
- Represent you during appeals if your claim is denied.
Denied Benefits? Don’t Give Up.
If your SSDI claim has been denied or you’re struggling with the application process, contact us today for a consultation. Let us help you secure the benefits you deserve.
Call us now to get started! 305-653-5555 Email us at [email protected] Text us at 305-653-1515 or fill out the form at the bottom of this page and we will call you!
What our clients have to say about us:
“I highly recommend Martin Hoffman and his staff, most particularly Marcy, Martin Hoffman’s assistant. Marcy’s words of encouragement and honesty about the Social Security Disability process guided me each step of the way. Moreover, Marcy promptly responded to my emails and calls to address my many questions and concerns with patience and kindness. Thanks to the diligence and expertise of Martin Hoffman and the entire team at Hoffman, Larin, and Agnetti, the Social Security Administration approved my application the first-time. Here’s a special thank you to Martin Hoffman and to all involved in this outstanding firm.” Edna Sepulveda 5 Star Google Review
“Mr. Hoffman did an outstanding job on my Social Security Disability case. I’m a disabled combat veteran who served in Afghanistan and Iraq. Mr. Hoffman knows how to work with the VA to get crucial medical records. I was pleased with Mr. Hoffman’s vast knowledge of how the Social Security Disability cases work inside and out. Mr. Hoffman and his wonderful staff did an excellent job putting my case together with all the necessary and required documents. They made my workload much easier and they helped make the process significantly less stressful for me. Mr. Hoffman made sure I was well prepared for my court appearance in front of the judge. I was educated on how the court proceedings would work. I was well prepared for the judge’s questions and Mr. Hoffman’s. I was very pleased with how my court appearance went. Mr. Hoffman was well prepared and professional. He knows the law extremely well. I highly recommend Mr. Hoffman and his staff for anyone’s Social Security Disability needs or concerns. I’m more than satisfied with Mr. Hoffman and how the overall process went.” Brent Gordon 5 Star Google Review
