In previous years, around 10.9 million disabled workers and dependents received disability benefits in the United States. That’s around 5.4% of the adult population between ages 18 and 64.
This claim provides disability benefits to replace lost income or cover related needs through insurance or a government agency like Social Security. But getting denied the benefits could lead to setbacks. More so if you rely on these benefits to support your health, income, and daily needs.
Fortunately, a denial does not signify the end of the process. It’s possible to make appeals for applicants to challenge the decision and seek a fair review of their case. In this case, you may need the assistance of an expert who can ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve, says disability lawyer Shawn E. McDermott.
Let’s take a look at all these aspects to support you in the right way through this tough time.
Table of Contents
The Initial Steps After a Denial
Receiving a denial for a disability claim can make one feel powerless and helpless; nevertheless, if one takes the right steps, the whole situation can be managed smoothly. Start by going over the denial letter thoroughly; getting to know the cause of the denial is extremely important.
Then come into contact with a support network; it can be friends, relatives, or even online communities. The sharing of your experience may not only help you to know some comfort but also to gain some insights. Depending on your case, it might be a good idea to find a lawyer who can support you during the appeal process.
Even with comprehensive worker protections in place, employers still enjoy a great deal of power and influence, so skilled legal help may be necessary to uphold your rights when pursuing employment or disability claims, according to a Pomona employment lawyer.
You will take a significant step forward, and this will provide you with support.
Gathering Necessary Documentation
In the process of appealing a disability claim refusal, the most essential step is to gather all the required documents. It is necessary to acquire all the medical records related to the case, including the doctor’s notes, the treatment Plan, and the test results that are in favor of your case.
Including any statements from family or friends regarding how your condition affects your day-to-day living will certainly be an advantage. Documentation of employment, such as job descriptions and performance reviews, can be very helpful too, as they will provide evidence of how the disability has impacted the time spent on your work.
Proper presentation of your documents can lead to a considerable strengthening of your appeal. Notwithstanding, it is essential to take into consideration that you are not alone and assistance can be offered by the attorneys or the support groups, and this may simplify the requirement process considerably if performed together.
Understanding the Appeal Process Timeline
Knowing the timeline for your disability claim appeal is very important since it may affect your preparation and case strategy greatly. You will have 60 days starting from the date you get your denial letter to submit an appeal.
Your appeal submission might take the review process several months to be completed. So you should stay in contact for updates. If there are difficulties that require help, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your agent.
With a clearer understanding of your present time stage, you can easily find out if there are issues you need to resolve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The process of the disability claims appeal might be very hard to bear but the possibility of making mistakes is very high and avoiding them can really help you a lot. One of the major mistakes is to not submit the appeal on time.
Be alert all the time about the last date for filing an appeal and stick to the deadline. Another issue is failure to submit complete documentation. If the information is incomplete, there will be delays or denials. It also matters a lot how you write your personal statements.
Rather than just stating the facts, have the reader experience the burden of your disability. Ask for assistance without any doubts. Getting in touch with someone who has been through this process would not only provide you with helpful tips but also be a considerable support.
Always remember that you are not alone and learning from your peers will always make a difference.
Tips for a Successful Appeal
To successfully move along the appeal process is surely a matter of more than just not making mistakes. Preparing your case in all aspects is highly recommended; medical records and work history are just two examples of what should be included among your supporting documents.
First of all, it is essential that you are well based on the original rejection; you must deal with the concerns raised at the very beginning. The help of advocacy groups or legal experts can support you in choosing the right path.
Develop a strong and clear narrative around your condition. Share your entire experience and elaborate on how your disability affects your life daily. Keep it all organized and clean.
Make sure you don’t miss the deadline, as timely delivery demonstrates your commitment. With drive and the right strategy, you can certainly increase your chance of success.