Trouble Getting Social Security Disability Benefits in Harrisburg? Common Reasons for Denied Benefits
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits in Harrisburg can be frustrating. Even if your medical records clearly show you cannot work, the Social Security Administration (SSA) can still deny your claim.
Fortunately, that doesn’t necessarily mean you are not entitled to benefits. Our experienced Harrisburg Social Security Disability lawyer explains common reasons for denials and what to review before you apply.
Common Reasons Harrisburg Social Security Disability Claims Are Denied
The Social Security Administration reports nearly two-thirds of all disability claims are denied on the first try. Even if you have the required work credits, a qualifying condition, and meet other requirements, your claim may still not be approved.
Common reasons for denial include:
- You are earning too much from work.
- Your condition is not considered severe enough and doesn’t significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related activities.
- Your medical records may not adequately establish your diagnosis, treatment, limitations, or expected prognosis.
- You can still perform your past work or other jobs, based on your age, education, work experience, and functional limitations.
- You overlook something in the application process, miss deadlines, or don’t respond to requests for information.
Medical evidence is particularly important. The SSA looks at information such as when your condition began, how it affects your activities, test results, treatment, and your ability to perform work-related tasks.
What Should You Double-Check Before Filing a Harrisburg Disability Claim?
When filing a Social Security claim, allow plenty of time and review the application thoroughly to avoid problems. Before submitting your claim, make sure you have:
- Complete medical information: Gather your doctors’ names and contact information, treatment dates, diagnoses, tests, medications, and other relevant records.
- A clear work history: Be prepared to explain your past jobs, including the physical and mental demands of each position.
- Details about your limitations: Think about how your condition affects sitting, standing, walking, lifting, concentrating, remembering instructions, and other daily activities.
- An accurate list of medications and treatment: Include ongoing treatment as well as procedures or therapies you have tried.
- Information about your work activity: Make sure your application accurately explains when your condition began affecting your ability to work and any changes in your work schedule or duties.
- All requested documentation: Respond to SSA requests promptly and keep copies of everything you submit.
The SSA advises applicants not to delay filing just because they don’t yet have every medical document. The agency can help obtain missing evidence, but you should provide what you have.
Contact Our Harrisburg Social Security Disability Lawyer
Social Security disability benefits can help replace lost wages if an injury, illness, or chronic health condition keeps you from working. Whether filing a claim or dealing with denied benefits, our office is here to help.
At Ira H. Weinstock P.C., our Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer provides the trusted knowledge and experience you need to protect your rights and get the benefits you deserve. Don’t delay. Contact us today to request a consultation.
Source:
ssa.gov/disability
