Why Has My Claim Been Denied?
In many cases, the Social Security Administration determines that a claimant’s disability does not prevent him or her from performing all types of work, citing the applicant’s residual functional capacity as the reason for denying that claim. The SSA may also determine that the claim you submitted didn’t include adequate medical documentation to be approved, or that the consultative examination they conducted produced evidence that refuted your own primary physician’s medical opinion about your disability.
Here’s a list explaining what parts of your initial SSD claim may have resulted in denial:
- Insufficient medical evidence. This is one of the biggest reasons that initial claims get denied, so providing a basic description of your condition or overview of your illness isn’t enough. You need provide thorough and detailed testimonial citing all sources of medical treatment you’ve received at hospitals, clinics, specialty treatment centers and doctors’ offices. Be sure to list each health care provider’s name, what treatment you were prescribed and on what date as well as how you responded going all the way back to your condition’s initial diagnosis. If your condition isn’t found to be long-term, your claim may be denied.
- Lack of quality evidence. It’s imperative that you keep up with regular doctor visits and abide by any current treatment plans, all of which should be listed in your medical records submitted along with your claim. It’s also in your best interest to keep lines of communication open with your health care providers so they can honestly fill out detailed visit notes. Without written proof explaining your disability, the SSA may not believe your claim is accurate.
- Failure to cooperate. If you’ve refused or forgotten to complete a task requested by the SSA (such as releasing your medical records, submitting a residual functional capacity form or undergoing a consultative exam to provide additional medical evidence), your claim may be denied. The SSA must be able to gauge your ability to sit, stand, walk, carry and file things, interact with coworkers and concentrate on tasks. Failure to do any of these may result in insufficient evidence for your application’s approval.
If your first disability claim is denied, your next step should be appealing the DDS’s decision.
