If you have received a social security disability claim denial, it can feel like the end of the world.

You’re struggling with your health issues, unable to work or bring in an income. You have been counting on an approval for your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim application. When the denial letter came, you could feel your heart drop in your chest.

Fortunately, a denial does not mean you’re out of options. Social security disability advocates help people in your situation every day – and they can help you file your SSDI appeal.

Why Do Social Security Disability Claims Get Denied?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a frustratingly high rate of disability claim denials. In fact, getting your initial application is extremely difficult, especially if you prepared and submitted it yourself.

The reasons for this overwhelmingly negative response are complex and confusing but they don’t necessarily mean that SSA thinks you aren’t disabled. In most cases, denials come because SSA didn’t have the right information to make a determination.

Like most government agencies, the SSA staff is overworked, underpaid and under substantial pressure to process claim applications. Typically a claim reviewer doesn’t have the time to dig through a mountain of paperwork to find the precise information they need to approve a claim.

What Documentation Do You Need for an SSDI Claim or Appeal?

To have the best chance of winning your appeal, you must provide the right documentation to prove your disability. But, more importantly, you must provide information that illustrates how your disability affects your life and your ability to work.

This is accomplished by having a doctor complete an assessment known as Residual Function Capacity (RFC). Because this document forms the basis of your claim, it is critical that the doctor understand how to complete this assessment. Medical records such as test results, surgery records, treatment plans or related documents are than attached to support the assessment.

At the time of appeal, the SSA might request another doctor’s opinion, known as a consultative examination (CE). Never agree to a CE without talking to a legal professional because, if the consulting doctor does not specialize in your specific disability, it could damage your claim.

Who Can Help You with Your Social Security Disability Claim Denial?

Once you receive a denial, you must proceed with caution for two reasons.

First, you only have a limited time – typically 60 days – to formally appeal an SSA denial or request reconsideration. Miss that deadline and your only option is to submit a new claim, which could diminish the back pay you are entitled to.

Second, your documentation must be perfect before you submit your appeal. Otherwise, you will have few options left for pursuing your claim. Don’t leave this critical process to chance.

The Social Security disability advocates at Mountain West Disability know precisely what type of documentation to submit for your claim. We have extensive experience with the processes and regulations used in SSDI programs and we put this knowledge to work on your behalf. Our team of seasoned legal professionals is passionate about helping our clients with disabilities recover the benefits they deserve.

If you received a Social Security disability claim denial, contact us today. We can walk you through the process, explain your options and assist you in filing your disability claim appeal or request for reconsideration.