In many cases, individuals are denied Social Security benefits when they submit their application for the first time. This can be for a number of reasons, but the staff at Disability Professionals in Corbin and Somerset advises that sometimes, it’s the system’s fault. Their team explains that administrative law judges aren’t perfect, and they sometimes make mistakes that cost individuals their benefits. It’s important to recognize these if you’re denied, as they provide a strong basis for making an appeal.
3 Mistakes Social Security Makes
1. Misclassified Impairments
To determine your eligibility for disability benefits, administrative law judges classify injuries as “severe” and “non-severe.” The difference between each is the degree to which they limit your ability to perform certain physical activities. If you’re denied Social Security benefits due to a non-severe classification, you can submit for a reassessment based on medical evidence that proves the true extent of your injuries.
2. Unconsidered Medication Side-Effects
Most disabling injuries require medication to handle pain or other issues stemming from the injury. Administrative law judges may look at this as a solution to your injury and deny your claim. However, they’re required to take side-effects into account, as well. Medications, especially at high doses, can cause significant side-effects that keep you from operating machinery, driving, or functioning well enough to work safely. If you have evidence backed by your physician, you can use this as a basis for appeal.
3. Non-Specified Reasoning
In some cases, an administrative law judge simply won’t specify why your claim for Social Security wasn’t believable. Legally, the judge cannot make this decision based on opinion and must provide evidence to support their decision. The system requires judges to be extremely specific. If your denial fails to mention specific details as to why you were denied benefits, you have solid grounds to file an appeal and should mention it to the Appeals Council.
Don’t let a denial keep you from getting the Social Security benefits you deserve. The expert team at Disability Professionals has extensive experience helping clients secure disability benefits, and they will work with you through your appeal to ensure you’re compensated. Call (606) 258-7772 today to schedule an appointment.
