Unfortunately, about 70% of all initial Social Security Disability applications are denied. There are many reasons why this might happen. Some of the more common ones include:
- Incomplete forms or a lack of critical medical records
- Filing a claim that may not appear to qualify as a disability
- You exceed income limits and donโt qualify financially
If you live in Evansville and you have been denied benefits, you need to contact the disability denial attorneys at Gerling Law to assist you in getting your case reversed and help you to start receiving the critical benefits you will need going forward.
Helping You Through the Disability Appeals Process
Fortunately, Social Security has many levels of an appeals process that applicants can go through in the hopes of reversing a disability denial. Itโs a proven fact that those applicants who retain an attorney stand a much better chance of overturning a decision at any of the levels.
The first level is known as a Reconsideration, and a request must be made within 60 days after an initial denial. At this level, a second examiner will take a look at your case files, along with any new files that you think are pertinent, and render a new decision. Knowing what files to gather and how to present them is a critical part of this level, and is also why an attorney brings a lot of added value.
If you are still denied, your next level of appeal is to request a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge. The judge will hold a hearing, much like a trial, at which you and your attorney can produce additional documents, call expert witnesses to testify on your behalf and make your best case for benefits. Those who are the best prepared will often be approved at this level.
If you are still denied, you can request that an Appeals Council review the judgeโs decision. Most cases are reviewed for technical errors the judge might have made, or things considered more substantial, such as failing to consider medical evidence that was important and pertinent at the time of the hearing.
The final level of appeal is to have a case heard in federal court. The vast majority of cases do not make it to this level, but it is an option and one that the attorneys at Gerling Law will utilize if there is even the slightest chance of approval.
Getting Approved for Disability Benefits can be a Long and Complicated Process
Gaining approval for disability benefits can be a complicated process, and it can take months, or in some cases, a couple of years to ultimately get you the benefits you deserve. With our many years of experience, you need to let the disability insurance attorneys at Gerling Law assist you with timely and appropriate steps to give you the best possible chance of winning your case.
Let Us Help with Your Disability Denial Case Today.
If you have been denied Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, then you should call us to discuss your options at 1-888-GERLING (888-437-5464) or complete the free case review form for a free, no-obligation initial consultation. Remember, Go with Experience. Go with Gerling.