Autoimmune disorders can disrupt your life and impact you financially. While your condition may allow you to apply for Social Security disability benefits, your application could be denied if all steps and requirements are not satisfied. The Law Center for Social Security Disability can help you with your application to avoid this possibility, or help you get to the bottom of why your claim was rejected.
What Factors are Considered When Processing an Autoimmune Disorder Benefits Claim
To understand the reasons for a claim denial, it is important to understand what the Social Security Administration looks for in autoimmune disorder disability claims. When processing your application, they will carefully evaluate your medical history, lab reports, physical exam results, and imaging and biopsy reports. They will also assess if your condition falls under one of the three autoimmune categories they cover, which includes autoimmune disorders, immune deficiency disorders, HIV-AIDS. These and other factors are considered when making a decision about an application.
Common Reasons for Claim Denials
In general, the Social Security Administration can deny applicants if their disability does not last 12 months or more, is not severe, and/or does not keep them from working. However, these are not the only aspects that are considered. Below is a closer look at some other key reasons why your SSD claim could be denied.
Failure to Seek Medical Care or Follow Medical Advice
Seeking and following medical care is vital when pursuing disability benefits. Failing to do either can considerably cost you, as the Social Security Administration will evaluate whether you are taking the proper steps to recover or manage your condition. Information about your medical condition and history is also needed to accurately determine the extent of your need.
Failure to Act in a Timely Manner
The Social Security Administration may request additional information when they are reviewing your application. Failing to promptly respond can result in a denial if your application cannot be fully processed. Lack of response can also imply that the need is not as great as indicated in the application.
Insufficient Evidence
Evidence is essential for supporting your claim, demonstrating your autoimmune condition, and showing the length of the illness and its impact. Failing to keep thorough records and provide evidence of your medical history, lost income, and other requested information can leave you without valuable compensation.
Failure to Meet Financial Requirements
To be eligible for SSD benefits for an autoimmune disorder, individuals must meet work history requirements and not make more than the threshold for Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for their situation. Failing to meet these requirements can result in a claim denial if the financial need is not deemed great enough to warrant benefits.
Avoiding These Mistakes Are Essential for Claim Approval
On average, the time it takes to receive a decision about your application can take 6-8 months. The length of time can also increase for complex cases, or decrease if eligibility requirements are not met. The Law Center for Social Security Disability can help streamline the process and make sure that you avoid these mistakes, receive a swift decision, and have the most favorable outcome for your claim.