The Disability Law Group gives an overview of continuing disability reviews.

All About Continuing Disability Reviews

Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provide individuals who are unable to work with valuable and necessary financial resources. However, even after being approved for SSD or SSI, the Social Security Administration conducts periodic reviews called Continuing Disability Reviews. In most cases, as long as a recipient’s medical and work situations remain substantially the same, his or her benefits will not be affected. However, changes in employment and health status can potentially result in the denial of benefits. Below is some additional information about Continuing Disability Reviews.  

How often do continuing disability reviews take place?

If the Social Security Administration determines that a recipient’s condition is likely to improve, then a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) will be performed every three years. Otherwise, reviews generally take place every seven years. Further, if an appeal is required from an initial level denial, and an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hears the case, many times the ALJ will recommend a CDR in an approval of disability benefits (such as is often the case for ‘Partially Favorable’ or ‘Fully Favorable’ decisions). However, if the Social Security Administration determines that a recipient has gone back to work or that his or her condition has improved, then it can conduct a review at any time.

How does the process begin?

The process begins when a recipient receives a Disability Update Report or Continuing Disability Review Report. If the recipient receives a Disability Update Report, he or she will be required to provide answers to questions about his or her medical condition. Once the Social Security Administration receives this response, it will determine whether a Continuing Disability Review is necessary. 

What happens during the process?

If a recipient is selected for a Continuing Disability Review, he or she must complete an additional form, and the Social Security Administration will conduct a review of the recipient’s medical records. Following the review once the CDR process begins, a number of outcomes could occur.  

What are the potential consequences? 

Ultimately, if the Social Security Administration determines that a recipient’s medical condition is no longer a barrier to gainful employment, then the recipient may lose his or her benefits. However, the Social Security Administration isn’t always right, and it often takes benefits from deserving individuals. Therefore, anyone whose benefits are revoked should immediately contact a Michigan disability law attorney to appeal the decision. 

Disability Law Attorneys in Michigan

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or would like to appeal a benefits denial, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to help. At Disability Law Group, our experienced Michigan attorneys will assist you with every step of the process, from filing the initial disability application to appealing your denial in court, if necessary. From your very first call, and throughout the entire process, our experienced disability attorneys in Michigan will provide you with the exceptional service and compassionate treatment you deserve. So, if you live in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, or elsewhere in Michigan and would like to apply for disability benefits or fight a denial, Disability Law Group is on your side. At Disability Law Group, disability is all we do. Please contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation. 

The Disability Law Group discusses what you should do if you have been denied social security disability benefits.

Have You Been Denied Social Security Disability Benefits?

One of the hard truths about Social Security disability benefits is that most first-time applications are denied. However, not all denials are based on substantive issues, such as an individual’s disability and income. Rather, many denials are due to factors that are entirely within most applicants’ control – meaning something that could be avoided with the right knowledge. Therefore, whether you intend to apply for Social Security disability benefits or have already applied and received a denial, please review the information below and contact one of our experienced Michigan disability law attorneys as soon as possible to discuss your case.  

Common reasons for denials   

Social Security disability claims are denied for a variety of reasons. For example, an applicant may have his or her claim declined if certain deadlines are missed. In addition, if an item on a person’s application is unclear or missing certain required information, this can result in a denial. Additional reasons that Social Security claims are denied include:

  • Failure to provide appropriate medical evidence 
  • Failure to fully complete paperwork
  • The inability of the Social Security Administration to contact the applicant due to inaccurate contact information
  • The claim is related to alcohol or drug abuse 
  • The disability isn’t severe enough to warrant benefits.
  • The disability isn’t long-lasting enough to warrant benefits 
  • The applicant makes too much money
  • Failure to follow a medical treatment plan 
  • Failure to cooperate with the Social Security Administration 
  • Previous denials

What can I do if I’ve been denied social security disability benefits?

If you’ve had your Social Security disability benefits claim denied, you should:

  • Appeal the decision with the assistance of a Michigan disability law attorney before the deadline lapses.
  • Be sure to provide complete information and details regarding your situation, including your medical information, work history, physical limitations, and the impact of your disability on your work performance
  • Don’t give up hope!

Let our Michigan disability law attorneys help you 

If you suffer from a medical condition that limits your ability to work, you may be entitled to disability benefits. However, the application process is difficult, and people often make mistakes resulting in denial. Therefore, if you would like to receive disability benefits, or if you have been denied benefits that you are entitled to, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to help. 

At Disability Law Group, our experienced disability law attorneys will assist you with every step of the Social Security disability benefits process, from filing the initial application to appealing any denials in court, if necessary. If you reside in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, or elsewhere in Michigan and would like to apply for disability benefits or fight a denial, Disability Law Group is on your side. Remember, at Disability Law Group, disability is all we do. Please contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation.

The Disability Law Group explains how to qualify for secondary service connection for PTSD.

What Is Secondary Service Connection for PTSD?

If you suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), research and studies have shown that it’s likely that you also suffer from secondary conditions. In other words, those with PTSD have a tendency to develop other impairments as a result of or aggravated by, their PTSD-related symptoms.

For example, as explained below, people with PTSD often suffer from issues like sleep apnea, erectile dysfunction, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you can prove that you suffer from a secondary condition related to your service-connected PTSD, you may be entitled to additional VA disability compensation.

For further information about secondary conditions and your compensation options, please review the information below and contact our Michigan disability law attorney for assistance.

Sleep Apnea

One common secondary condition associated with PTSD that we typically see in our veterans is sleep apnea.

Symptoms of sleep apnea include:

  • Waking up short of breath
  • Gasping for air
  • Snoring
  • Fatigue

In addition, untreated sleep apnea can lead to multiple serious complications, including:

  • Diabetes
  • Glaucoma
  • Behavioral disorders
  • Heart attack
  • Cancer

Erectile Dysfunction

For males with PTSD, erectile dysfunction is a common secondary condition. Erectile dysfunction can affect a person’s life in many ways. Not only does the condition typically cause stress on the veteran, but it can also cause relationship problems which can further exacerbate mental symptoms.

Alternatively, some people experience erectile dysfunction due to PTSD medications. These theories of secondary service connection are common grounds for a valid VA service-connected disability claim.

GERD

GERD is an issue that results when stomach acid flows into the esophagus and irritates its lining.

Symptoms of GERD include:

  • Heartburn
  • Belching
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Regurgitation of food
  • Arm pain
  • Shoulder pain

Secondary Service Connection  

If you suffer from any of the above conditions, you may eligible for secondary service connection secondary to PTSD.

However, you must already be receiving benefits for service-connected PTSD to receive secondary service connection on the basis of PTSD. In order to build your case for secondary service connection, you must provide evidence that your condition stems from PTSD or from PTSD medication, depending on the case.

Generally, the best way to demonstrate this is with a medical opinion from your healthcare provider. For assistance compiling the necessary documentation and preparing your application or appeal, it is highly recommended that you hire an experienced Michigan disability law attorney to guide you through the process.

Not only will you speak with an attorney when you call, but our dedicated team will be by your side through every step of the process ensuring you receive every benefit owed.

Michigan Disability Law Attorneys  

If you’d like to receive disability benefits due to PTSD or a secondary condition, or if you have been denied PTSD disability benefits in the past, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to help.

At Disability Law Group, our experienced Michigan attorneys will be by your side during every step of the process, from filing the initial application to appealing your denial.

From your very first call, and throughout the entire process, our experienced disability law lawyers will provide you with the exceptional service and compassionate treatment you deserve.

So, if you live in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, or elsewhere in Michigan and are suffering from PTSD or a related secondary condition, Disability Law Group is on your side. At Disability Law Group, disability is all we do. Please contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation.

The Disability Law Group discusses the required documentation for social security disability benefits.

What Kind of Documentation Is Required When Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Applicants for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits are requested to include supporting documentation with their applications. In fact, a common reason that claims are rejected is the lack of proper documentation or information needed. If you are unable to work due to a disability and would like to receive SSD benefits, please review the information below, and contact our experienced disability law attorneys as soon as possible for assistance with preparing your application. Our dedicated team will see you through from the very start to make sure you are positioned in the best way to receive the benefits you deserve.

Documentation requirements for SSD benefits

When applying for SSD benefits, the following answers, and documentation, are required:

Personal information

Certain basic identifying information is required when applying for SSD benefits, including: 

  • The applicant’s name
  • The applicant’s place of birth
  • The applicant’s contact information
  • The applicant’s marital status and former spouse details
  • Details regarding the applicant’s children and parents if providing support

Professional information

Next, applicants must provide professional information. For example, if the applicant has served in the military, he or she must provide information regarding the type of duty, the branch, and service duration. Further, the following information is required:  

  • Details regarding current and former employers
  • Work history, including starting and ending dates of employment
  • Earnings history, particularly since the date disability began, if any
  • The kinds of jobs the applicant has held over the past 15 years 
  • The applicant’s level of education and details regarding vocational and special job training

In addition, applicants who are self-employed must provide business information, income information, and Social Security tax statements for the previous several years. 

Social Security Disability information

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, applicants must provide disability information. Specifically, applicants must provide the following information:

  • A list of all the applicant’s disabling medical conditions
  • A list of healthcare professionals, doctors, hospitals, and clinics where the applicant has received treatment for his or her disabling medical conditions
  • Treatment information, such as medications the applicant has taken and medical tests he or she has undergone 
  • Information regarding the receipt of workers’ compensation 
  • Information regarding the receipt of public benefits
  • Information regarding the onset of the disability and its effect on the applicant’s ability to work 

Let our Michigan disability law attorneys help you   

If you suffer from a disability and are in need of SSD benefits, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to help. At Disability Law Group, our experienced disability law attorneys will assist you with every step of the disability benefits application process, including compiling and submitting necessary and supportive documentation. So, if you live in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, or elsewhere in Michigan and would like to apply for disability benefits or fight a denial, Disability Law Group is on your side. Remember, at Disability Law Group, disability is all we do. Please contact our experienced disability law attorneys as soon as possible for additional information on Social Security disability benefits in Michigan and to schedule your free consultation.    

The Disability Law Group discusses whether or not arthritis qualifies patients for social security disability benefits.

Does My Arthritis Qualify Me for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Social Security disability benefits are available for individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying medical condition. Given the fact that arthritis can be severe enough to impair a person’s ability to maintain employment, people often wonder whether this condition entitles them to benefits. Whether or not arthritis entitles one to Social Security disability benefits depends on a number of factors. Generally speaking, however, the arthritis must be severe enough to prevent an individual from performing any available work. If you suffer from arthritis and would like to apply for Social Security disability benefits, you can review the information below, and contact one of our disability law attorneys for a consultation. 

Eligibility

To receive benefits for arthritis, you must first file an application with the Social Security Administration (SSA) which will require SSA to make a determination regarding your eligibility. Next, in reviewing your eligibility, the SSA will:

  • Determine whether you are gainfully employed.
  • Determine whether your arthritis is severe enough to prevent you from performing physical tasks required for working. 
  • Determine whether your arthritis meets its medical criteria.

Other considerations

It is important to know that there are various ways that individuals with arthritis may qualify, under SSA’s rules, for disability benefits. The first part of the analysis requires SSA to determine whether your conditions are severe enough to meet or medically equal the criteria of one or more designated Listings. The Listings are designed to help streamline the process allowing for an award of benefits for individuals with serious medical problems, such as debilitating arthritis that significantly limits mobility and functioning. For example, one may qualify if there is objective medical evidence, by way of an x-ray, MRI, or a CT scan, for example, that confirms arthritis with nerve root impingement, difficulty walking, and/or non-union of a major weight-bearing joint. If you would like to better understand whether a Listing may apply in your case, you will want to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you understand what is needed.

However, even if your arthritis, or other physical impairment, doesn’t reach the severity of one the Listings, you still could be found “disabled” and qualify for Social Security disability benefits, if your condition precludes you from working on a full-time basis. First, SSA will evaluate whether you can be expected to perform any type of work that you’ve performed in the past. If it’s found that you are unable to perform any of your previous jobs, the SSA will consider your level of education, your age, your previous experience, and your overall health to determine whether you can be trained to do any other kind of available work. Ultimately, if SSA finds that you are able to perform some kind of work, you will be denied Social Security Disability benefits at the initial application level. 

What to do if you’re denied

If your claim is denied, you’ll have the chance to bring your case before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). During your hearing, you will be given the opportunity to explain how your arthritic condition prevents you from working. In addition, you’ll be permitted to bring witnesses who can testify on your behalf about your condition and its effect on your ability to work. Generally, there will be a vocational expert at the hearing who will be asked questions about how certain limitations might impact a person’s ability to work to help assist the ALJ in coming to their decision. An experienced, caring attorney can not only help you better understand the process but will also be by your side throughout every step from the application and/or appeal through the hearing process to cross-examine the vocational expert and present evidence and arguments on your behalf.

Let our Michigan disability law attorneys help you  

If you suffer from arthritis and are in need of SSD benefits, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to help. At Disability Law Group, our experienced disability law attorneys will assist you with every step of the disability benefits application process, including compiling and submitting documentation. So, if you live in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, or elsewhere in Michigan and suffer from chronic arthritis, Disability Law Group is on your side. Remember, at Disability Law Group, disability is all we do. Please contact our experienced disability law attorneys as soon as possible for a consultation.

Social Security Disabilty form stamped APPROVED.

Tips for a Successful Social Security Disability Claim

Whether you’re applying for Social Security disability benefits for the first time or appealing a denial, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of success. The first thing you should do before initiating either process, however, is seek the guidance of an experienced Michigan disability law attorney. With a disability law attorney by your side, you can rest assured that your application or appeal will be handled in the most thorough and effective manner possible. Below are additional tips for a successful Social Security Disability claim.

Meet your deadlines – Following a denial of Social Security disability benefits, you have, typically, 60 days to appeal the decision. Remember to pay close attention to the reason for your denial and the appeal deadline you will have to follow. In addition, there are deadlines for submitting paperwork and attending medical appointments. A great way to ensure that you meet all deadlines is to hire a Michigan disability law attorney to guide you through the process.

Report your symptoms accurately – Some individuals who apply for Social Security disability benefits exaggerate their symptoms. This isn’t a good idea. When applying for Social Security disability benefits, make sure you accurately report your symptoms. Incorrect information can result in a denial.    

Follow your doctor’s treatment orders – Comply with the course of treatment recommended by your doctor. Examples of treatment could include prescribed medications, counseling recommendation, and physical therapy sessions. The failure to comply with a doctor’s orders is a common cause of Social Security disability benefits denials. If there are legitimate reasons why you are not following your treatment plan assigned by your doctor, such as rational fear, it is important to document these reasons and consult with an experienced attorney about your unique situation and how to best position yourself to cover all bases.

Complete your application – When applying for Social Security disability benefits, fill out your application accurately and completely. This may include gathering additional documents to attach to your application. In order to accurately complete your application, you’ll need access to your medical records and will need to provide information about your work history. A Michigan disability law attorney can assist you in gathering these documents from the application process through any necessary appeals.

Hire a Michigan disability law attorney – Whether you are applying for Social Security disability benefits or appealing a denial, you need the assistance of a Michigan disability law attorney. The application and appeals processes are complicated, and those individuals who obtain legal counsel prior to beginning either process drastically improve their chances of success. With an experienced attorney by your side, you can rest assured that you won’t miss any important deadlines or fail to properly submit any required documentation. Therefore, if you’d like to receive disability benefits but don’t know how to apply, or if you’ve been denied the benefits you are entitled to, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to help. At Disability Law Group, our experienced Michigan attorneys will assist with every step of the process, from filing the initial application to appealing your denial in court, if necessary, ensuring no deadlines are missed and your interests are protected. From your very first call, and throughout the entire process, our experienced disability law lawyers will provide you with the exceptional service and compassionate treatment you deserve. At Disability Law Group, disability is all we do. Please contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation.

Social Security application

Am I eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Life can be tough for people who are unable to earn a living due to a disability. Fortunately for many, there are programs in place at both the state and federal level designed to help people with disabilities to get by financially with the help of monetary benefits and insurance. In fact, disabled individuals who meet certain requirements may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. If you suffer from a disability and would like to apply for Social Security disability benefits, please review the information below and contact our disability law attorneys as soon as possible to determine your eligibility and potential retroactive benefits you are owed.

Conditions for Social Security disability benefits

When applying for Social Security disability benefits, you must meet all of the following conditions:

  • Your ability to work is hindered by a medical condition
  • You are unable to adjust to alternative work due to your medical condition
  • Your medical condition has lasted or is expected to last for at least a year, or it is expected to result in death

While meeting these conditions doesn’t automatically guarantee that you’ll be approved for disability benefits, Social Security will begin the process here. Further, if you are over 50 years old but under full retirement age, there are additional laws you may rely on to assist you in obtaining benefits in a quicker and easier manner. There are additional listings which Social Security must consider in the evaluation process to see if the condition(s) alleged are so severe, an award of disability is appropriate. Due to the complicated nature of the Social Security disability benefits process and system, it is recommended that you contact our disability law attorneys for further details and assistance so you can be placed in the best position to receive the benefits you deserve.

How does the SSA make disability determinations?

As noted above, your inability to work based on a medical condition is one of the factors the Social Security Administration (SSA) will examine when determining whether you’re eligible for Social Security disability benefits. However, not all medical conditions are eligible. Your medical condition must meet the SSA’s definition of a disability. When determining whether you suffer from a disability, the SSA considers the following factors:

  • Whether you are currently employed
  • Your monthly earnings
  • Whether your disability interferes with work-related activities
  • Whether your disability is on its list of disabling conditions
  • Whether you can perform the work-related tasks you could prior to your medical condition
  • Whether you are able to perform alternative work or if you can perform your current work with accommodations

Contact a Michigan disability law attorney to determine your eligibility

If you would like to receive disability benefits but don’t know how to apply, or if your SSD benefits have been denied or canceled, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to help. At Disability Law Group, our experienced disability law attorneys will assist you with every step of the disability benefits process. So, if you live in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, or elsewhere in Michigan and would like to apply for disability benefits or fight a denial, Disability Law Group is on your side. Remember, at Disability Law Group, disability is all we do. Please contact our experienced disability law attorneys as soon as possible for a free consultation.

The Disability Law Group discusses the difference between VA benefits and social security disability benefits.

VA and Social Security Disability—What’s the Difference?

Veterans Administration (VA) disability compensation is a tax-free benefit available to veterans who incurred a disability while serving, or related to their service, in the military, such as a physical injury, chronic illness, or mental health condition. Social Security disability benefits, on the other hand, are available to disabled individuals who aren’t able to competitively work full-time – civilians or veterans. While there are a number of differences between the two, the most important distinction between VA and Social Security disability benefits is the way the Social Security Administration (SSA) and VA define “disability.”

According to the SSA’s definition, an applicant is either completely disabled and unable to work, or he or she isn’t disabled at all. The VA, on the other hand, bases its definition on the severity of an applicant’s condition(s) as well as the impact on work. The VA evaluates each disability separately and assigns a separate rating to each disability. Below is some additional information about VA benefits.

VA benefits information

In order to be eligible to receive VA disability benefits, the applicant must qualify as a veteran, have been discharged under conditions that weren’t dishonorable, and prove a nexus that demonstrates the condition(s) is related to caused by time in service.

Evidence required: In order to demonstrate that an applicant meets the requirements above, the following evidence should be submitted:

Service treatment records
Discharge or separation papers
Medical reports
Reports from government agencies or employers

Compensation: The amount of compensation that an applicant will be awarded depends on the severity of his or her disability. In addition, an applicant with dependents who is at least 30% disabled can receive additional compensation. The VA awards benefits based on a rating scale with differing amounts of compensation.

Length of benefits: VA disability benefits ordinarily last for as long as an applicant is disabled. Typically, an applicant is evaluated six months after his or her discharge and between two to five years after that. However, there are certain circumstances that must be met, and laws that the VA must follow, when re-considering veterans conditions depending on how long the veteran has been receiving their benefit.

Michigan Disability Law Attorneys

If you are a veteran and would like to receive disability benefits due to PTSD and/or some other medical condition, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to assist you. At Disability Law Group, our experienced Michigan attorneys will be by your side during every step of the process, from filing your initial application for VA disability benefits to appealing your denial in court, if necessary. From your very first call, and throughout the entire process, our experienced disability lawyers will provide you with the exceptional service and compassionate treatment you deserve.

So, if you live in Macomb County, Oakland County, or Wayne County, Michigan (or throughout the U.S. for VA disability claims), and would like to apply for disability benefits or fight a denial, Disability Law Group is on your side. At Disability Law Group, disability is all we do. Please contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation.

The Disability Law Group discusses whether or not your social security disability benefits would cancel if you have a job.

Can My Social Security Disability Benefits Be Cancelled If I Have a Job?

Social Security disability benefits are extremely valuable to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. But what happens when a Social Security disability benefits recipient returns to work? While these types of benefits are intended to help those who can’t work, there are specific circumstances in which a disabled individual can hold a job and continue to receive benefits. It is critical to consult with an experienced disability attorney to find out what the rules are that may affect working while on disability and what your rights are.

How long do Social Security disability benefits continue?

Disabled individuals will continue to receive Social Security disability benefits until one of the following occurs:

  • He or she reaches retirement age and begins receiving Social Security retirement payments
  • He or she commits a crime and is institutionalized or incarcerated
  • His or her medical condition improves to the extent that he or she is no longer considered disabled
  • He or she earns income over the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level without an exception being met, such as a qualifying Trial Work Period (TWP)

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Work and Affect on Disability

As noted above, Social Security disability benefits may be terminated when a beneficiary returns to work and earns more than SGA. For 2019, SGA is $1,220 per month for a disabled individual and $2040 per month if a disabled individual is blind. In other words, a disabled individual can work part-time and still receive Social Security disability benefits as long as he or she earns under these amounts. However, there are programs in place designed to encourage individuals to test their ability to work, even above SGA levels, which will trigger a TWP. However, it is important to notify the Social Security Administration right away if you do return to work once approved for disability benefits.

Self-employed individuals and SGA

SGA determinations can be complex for self-employed individuals. For example, a self-employed individual may work well over 40 hours per week and still earn below SGA. In order to make SGA determinations for self-employed recipients, the Social Security Administration employs several tests to determine whether the continued receipt of benefits is appropriate. If you have questions about whether your self-employment, or other work, may impact your disability benefits, or are thinking about applying or appealing a denial, contact our experienced attorneys for a free consultation.

Michigan disability law attorneys

The cancellation of SSD benefits can be devastating. Therefore, if you would like to receive disability benefits but don’t know how to apply, or if your SSD benefits have been cancelled, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to help. At Disability Law Group, our experienced disability law attorneys will assist you with every step of the disability benefits application process. So, if you live in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, or elsewhere in Michigan and would like to apply for disability benefits or fight a denial, Disability Law Group is on your side. Remember, at Disability Law Group, disability is all we do. Please contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation.

Concerned woman reading bad news in a letter sitting on a couch in the living room at home

Common Reasons That SSD Claims Are Denied

Despite the high number of people who apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits each year in Michigan, a majority of claims are denied at the initial level of the disability claim process. And while every applicant’s situation is unique, the reasons for denial tend to be relatively uniform. In order to improve the chances of approval, applicants should review the following common reasons that SSD claims are denied and consult with an experienced Michigan disability law attorney prior to applying for SSD benefits.     

 

Lack of medical evidence

 

SSD claims are often denied due to a lack medical evidence. In order to qualify for SSD benefits, an applicant must prove that he or she is unable to work due to a disabling condition(s). In order to successfully prove this, the applicant must submit medical records that demonstrate his or her inability to work due to a disability, or a combination of impairments that preclude an ability to work.

Prior denials

People often think that filing a new SSD claim following a denial is a better option than filing an appeal. However, as a general rule, this is not the case. In fact, in some situations, an applicant’s new claim will be denied when it is discovered that he or she was previously denied and there is no significant change from before. Further, back-pay benefits and additional insurance coverage could be lost if the claimant files a new application rather than an appeal. Therefore, applicants should speak to a knowledgeable Social Security Disability attorney in Michigan to determine their best options.

Failure to follow treatment plan

When an applicant fails to follow the treatment plan prescribed by his or her doctor, or is considered to be non-compliant, chances are that the SSD claim will be denied on that basis. The primary reason for the denial in this type of situation is that the examiner will not be able to determine the applicant’s inability to work due to a disability if he or she is unwilling to comply with a prescribed treatment plan. When an applicant for disability shows that they are being compliant with prescribed medications and treatment, then Social Security can see that they are making reasonable efforts to get better, increasing their chances of approval.

 

Failure to cooperate with the Social Security office

 

Finally, the failure to cooperate with the Social Security office can result in a denied SSD claim. For example, if an applicant fails to provide the Social Security office with requested documentation or doesn’t show up to scheduled medical exams, his or her claim could be denied. Having an experienced attorney on your side will ensure that no deadlines are missed and that your claim is as complete as possible, setting you up for the best chance of success.

 

Failure to hire a Michigan disability law attorney

 

The denial of SSD benefits can be devastating. Therefore, if you would like to receive disability benefits but don’t know how to apply, or if you have been denied the benefits you are entitled to, the skilled disability law attorneys at Disability Law Group are here to help. At Disability Law Group, our experienced disability law attorneys will assist you with every step of the SSD benefits application process. So, if you live in Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, or elsewhere in Michigan and would like to apply for disability benefits or fight a denial, Disability Law Group is on your side. Remember, disability is all we do – day in and day out. Contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation.