In order to be eligible for Social Security disability, individuals must meet several criteria put forth by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
First, any claimant must be able to prove to the SSA that he or she is "permanently disabled," or suffering from a condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, more than twelve (12) calendar months. Because of this timeframe, it is important that claimants keep their medical records and other paperwork organized and up to date.
In addition, the SSA will attempt to make a judgment as to whether or not a claimant's disabling condition prevents the individual from achieving any type of "substantial gainful activity." The condition must not only prevent the claimant from performing the duties of his or her previous employment, but also make it impossible to find a new line of work due to age, education, or impairment.
Due mostly to the increasing volume of Social Security disability claims, denial rates for applications at the initial stage are currently upwards of 60%. The most common reasons for denial are the inability of a claimant to prove the severity of a disability due to insufficient medical records or other documentation, or insufficient work history to meet the work credit requirements of the SSA. In addition, many claimants are unfamiliar with the Social Security appeals process, and are unaware of the proper procedures to pursue their claim in the case of a denial.
In order to avoid such problems, claimants should continuously seek treatment from medical professionals and keep all records organized and complete. In addition, the experience of a Social Security attorney can be invaluable in making a successful appeal after the initial denial.
First, any claimant must be able to prove to the SSA that he or she is "permanently disabled," or suffering from a condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, more than twelve (12) calendar months. Because of this timeframe, it is important that claimants keep their medical records and other paperwork organized and up to date.
In addition, the SSA will attempt to make a judgment as to whether or not a claimant's disabling condition prevents the individual from achieving any type of "substantial gainful activity." The condition must not only prevent the claimant from performing the duties of his or her previous employment, but also make it impossible to find a new line of work due to age, education, or impairment.
Due mostly to the increasing volume of Social Security disability claims, denial rates for applications at the initial stage are currently upwards of 60%. The most common reasons for denial are the inability of a claimant to prove the severity of a disability due to insufficient medical records or other documentation, or insufficient work history to meet the work credit requirements of the SSA. In addition, many claimants are unfamiliar with the Social Security appeals process, and are unaware of the proper procedures to pursue their claim in the case of a denial.
In order to avoid such problems, claimants should continuously seek treatment from medical professionals and keep all records organized and complete. In addition, the experience of a Social Security attorney can be invaluable in making a successful appeal after the initial denial.
Steve Hargrove, Attorney at Law
Hargrove Law, PLLC
P.O. Box 1383
511 West Ninth Street
Hopkinsville, Kentucky 42241
Phone: (270) 707-6600
Fax: (270) 918-0202
Hargrove Law, PLLC
P.O. Box 1383
511 West Ninth Street
Hopkinsville, Kentucky 42241
Phone: (270) 707-6600
Fax: (270) 918-0202