Decisions on SSD Claims – Fully Favorable vs. Partially Favorable

After you apply for Social Security Disability benefits or appeal an SSD claim denial, you’ll eagerly await a decision. And, of course, you’ll be hoping for an approval.

However, approval comes in one of two forms – and the judge may grant either a fully favorable or partially favorable decision. What’s the difference? For an easy explanation, read on.

How do social security disability claims work

Fully Favorable Decision

A fully favorable decision is the ultimate goal, the best possible outcome for a Social Security Disability claim.

If your Notice of Decision letter is fully favorable, it means that the judge has found you disabled – and that the judge agrees that the alleged onset date (AOD) listed on your claim is the date your disability began. As such, you’ll receive the maximum in retroactive Social Security disability benefits, otherwise known as back pay.

Partially Favorable Decision

A partially favorable decision certainly isn’t the worst SSD claim outcome – it does mean you’ll receive disability benefits, after all.

However, a decision that’s partially favorable means that you’ll receive less in back pay. The reason? The judge believes that you are disabled, but doesn’t agree with the AOD on your SSD claim. The Notice of Decision will include an established onset date (EOD), which is later than the date you indicated. As a result, your retroactive disability benefits will be reduced.

Can You Appeal a Partially Favorable Decision?

If you receive a partially favorable decision, you have the right to file an appeal – but before doing so, you’ll need to give the matter careful thought.

In some cases, the difference between the AOD and the EOD is small. Appealing isn’t always the best decision in this situation, as doing so allows for the reexamination of your entire SSD claim. If you do appeal, you need to be aware that you run the risk of receiving an unfavorable decision or the judge setting an even later EOD for your disability.

But if your Notice of Decision is partially favorable, you could be deprived of several thousands of dollars in retroactive benefits. When you stand to lose out on receiving a substantial amount, appealing the SSD claim decision may be in your best interests.

Are you planning on applying for Social Security Disability benefits? Or was your SSD claim denied? Whether you want help filing a claim or an appeal, the professional team at Mountain West Disability is ready to meet your needs.

Our highly skilled Social Security Disability attorneys and advocates have worked with hundreds of disabled individuals – and we’ll fight to make sure you get an approval for disability benefits. For more information on our services, or to schedule a free consultation to discuss your SSD claim, contact our office in Murray, Utah, today.