Filing A Harrisburg Social Security Disability Claim? How To Prevent Denied Or Delayed Benefits
If you are unable to work for a year or more, you may be entitled to Social Security disability benefits in Harrisburg. Funded through your work taxes, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) covers a portion of your lost wages but the application process is complex, and many claims end up getting denied or delayed. Our Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer helps clients in these cases, protecting their rights. The following are tips on how to strengthen your application and mistakes to avoid.
Key Steps to Strengthen Your Harrisburg Social Security Disability Application
If an injury, illness, or chronic physical, mental, or cognitive condition keeps you from working for a year or more, Social Security disability benefits can help offset your losses. The Social Security Administration reports that more than 400,000 people throughout Pennsylvania collect SSDI.
The claims process is always challenging, though it can be confusing trying to navigate it on your own. To prevent denials or delays, our Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer suggest these steps to strengthen your application:
- Gather copies of all relevant medical records: Ensure all doctor’s reports, imaging scans, prescriptions, and treatment plans are up to date and submitted with your application.
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan: Demonstrate that you are following your doctor’s instructions regarding prescribed testing, treatment, and activity restrictions.
- Track your symptoms: Document your symptoms each day, rate their severity, and describe the impacts in performing work or other tasks.
- Get supporting statements: Letters from medical providers, physical therapists, employers, and your family can all help validate your claim.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Harrisburg SSDI Application
Social Security disability denial rates are at over 65 percent, meaning more than two-thirds of all long-term disability claims on the first try. Fortunately, you have the right to file an appeal, but this can delay your benefits for months or even years.
One of the most common reasons for SSDI denials is avoidable errors. The following are common mistakes to avoid on your application:
- Incomplete or Incorrect Forms: Missing information or errors can result in automatic denial.
- Insufficient Medical Evidence: A lack of statements from your doctor, medical test results, and other documentation can cause the SSA to challenge your claim.
- Failure to Follow Up: Not responding to SSA requests for additional information can delay or negatively impact your claim.
- Continuing to Work Full-Time: Earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit can make you ineligible for benefits.
Avoiding these mistakes and ensuring accuracy in your disability application significantly improves your chances of approval.
Get Trusted Legal Help From Our Harrisburg Social Security Disability Lawyer
Social Security disability benefits in Harrisburg provide a lifeline if you are unable to work, but the application process is complex, and denials are common. To protect your rights to benefits, contact Ira H. Weinstock, P.C.
We provide trusted legal guidance and fight to get you the maximum amount you are entitled, with the least possible wait time. Request a consultation today with our Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer.
Sources:
ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcomps/ssi_sc/2021/table01.html
ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcomps/di_asr/2020/sect04.html
