Denied disability claim?
If you’ve been denied after filing a claim for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you may feel scared and unsure about what to do next. You have worked hard, and now you need help because you cannot work due to serious health conditions. A denial can feel like a major setback, but you are not alone. Many South Carolina residents receive a denied disability claim the first time they apply for Social Security Disability benefits.
The good news is a denied disability claim is not the end. You still have options. In fact, many people are approved later in the appeals process. This guide explains the important steps to take after a denied disability claim and how attorney David L. Hood and his co-counsel legal team can help you fight for the benefits you need.
Most SSD claimants receive a notice of denial after filing a claim. Statistically speaking, the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies initial SSD claims at a rate of 62% to 78%, and reconsiderations (the initial stage of appeals) have an even higher denial rate of 84%.
After you find out your claim has been denied, you may be feeling frustrated, stressed, and anxious. But one thing you shouldn’t feel is hopeless. Even if the statistics regarding SSD claim denials seem discouraging, it’s important to remember that you’re not a statistic. Your case is unique. And just because some appeals are denied at an 84% rate doesn’t mean that your particular case has an 84% chance of being denied.
However, if you want your Social Security Disability appeal to have the best chance of success, it’s important to understand the next steps you need to take and what you can do differently this time around.
The denial notice you received from the SSA should contain a summary of your medical conditions and impediments as well as the medical and non-medical records the SSA considered in rendering its decisions. The denial notice should also contain an explanation for your denial.
Some of the most common reasons Social Security Disability claims are denied:
Your denial notice may also include a “technical rationale,” which is a detailed explanation of the factors that caused the SSA to deny your claim. If the denial notice you received doesn’t include a rationale, make sure to request your file from the Social Security Administration so you can find out this information. Understanding why your claim was initially denied is crucial if you want to give your appeal a chance to succeed.
You have 60 days (plus five for mailing) to file an appeal after a denied disability claim. If you miss the deadline, you may have to start over, which could delay benefits for a long time.
Do not wait — take action immediately.
Many people think filing a new claim is easier — but that’s usually a mistake. A new claim could cause delays or even weaken your case, and could cause you to lose:
An appeal protects your rights.
Medical proof is the heart of any disability claim. After a denial, your South Carolina disability attorney should be able to help you:
If a doctor has stopped treating you, try to restart care right away. The SSA wants to see ongoing treatment. Gaps in treatment can hurt your appeal.
Some people try to stay strong and hide their pain. But during a disability claim, that can hurt your case.
Write down:
Personal details can show why your denied disability claim should be approved.
Your symptoms may not show up on a medical test, but they still matter.
If you skip appointments or ignore treatment recommendations, the SSA may think your condition is not serious. Follow your care plan as best you can. If you cannot afford treatment, tell your lawyer — they may be able to think of how you may be able to find find low-cost options.
Trying to fix a denied disability claim alone can feel overwhelming. The rules are complicated, and simple mistakes can lead to another denial. An experienced attorney should know how to:
Most Social Security disability attorneys only get paid if you win your case. There are no upfront costs to hire The Law Offices of David L. Hood.
RELATED: 5 Reasons to Hire a Lawyer for Your SSD Claim
A denied disability claim does not mean necessarily you are not disabled. It may simply mean that the SSA needs more information.
The Law Offices of David L. Hood has helped disabled workers across the Palmetto State for more than 30 years, including:
Wherever you live in SC, our legal team is ready to assist.
We understand the local Social Security offices, judges, and hearing system. We are here to fight for you and your benefits!
Q: Does a denial mean I’ll never get benefits?
A: No. Denials are common, and many people are eventually approved.
Q: Can I work while appealing?
A: It depends. Limited part-time work may be allowed, but earning too much can harm your claim. Ask your lawyer before working.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: Appeals can take months, especially if a hearing is needed. Starting right away is your best move.
Appealing a denied disability claim can be stressful and confusing. But you don’t have to do it alone.
An experienced disability lawyer can:
And you don’t pay anything upfront — we only get paid if you win.
If your Social Security disability claim was denied, contact us today to protect your right to benefits.
The Law Offices of David L. Hood is proud to be recognized for our dedication to helping injured and disabled people across South Carolina. Our firm has earned multiple honors over the years, including client satisfaction awards as well as recognition by respected legal organizations including America’s Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys, and Nation’s Top One Percent in the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. These awards show our long-standing commitment to treating every client with compassion, attention, and respect. When you choose our team to help with your denied disability claim, you can feel confident that you have an experienced and highly trusted advocate fighting for your rights.
