Social Security Disability Mythology

Social Security Disability Mythology: Separating the True from the False

Every single disability application is denied the first time.

While it is true that the majority of applications are denied the first time (the number is around 70%,) there are no rules or regulations that state that all claims have to be initially denied and then subsequently handled through the appeals process. Getting your claim accepted the first time is simply a matter of handling the application process correctly, and having an attorney who specializes in this is good way to accomplish this.

If your application gets denied, the best thing to do is file another application immediately.

Trying the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result is not the most practical way to get disability benefits. In fact, filing another application after being denied will mean that your application will be denied for the same reasons. If you application is denied, begin the appeals process. An attorney can help you through it.

Some medical conditions get you automatically approved for Social Security Disability.

That’s a yes and no answer. While there are some conditions that are listed in the Social Security Administrations Impairment Manual that are generally green lighted, you still have to go through the process and have your disability documented. There are also certain conditions that are only considered eligible if they are at a certain level of disability.

You should know that EVERY single application gets scrutinized by the SSA. There is documentation that must be examined and medical professionals that must be interviewed. There is no such thing as an “automatic” approval for Social Security Disability benefits.

A statement from your doctor means that you automatically get your benefits.

Again, there is no “automatic” approval for your benefits. In fact, most applicants have their whole medical histories scrutinized, so a blanket statement from one doctor won’t matter much. The best time where a detailed statement from a doctor that is knowledgeable about your condition is when the process comes before a judge.

You will get a decision on your claim within three months.

There are no deadlines for Social Security Disability applications. While it very well might take three months, it also might take eight, or nine, or ten.

I have been approved for VA benefits, so I should easily be approved for SSD benefits.

The VA and the Social Security Administration have no influence or bearing on each other. In fact, the standards at the SSA are much more rigid than the standards at the VA. While the VA offers disability according to a percentage scale, the SSA requires that all applicants be 100% disabled.

As you can see, there is a great deal of misinformation and rumors floating around. If you find yourself disabled and need to apply for Social Security Disability benefits, your best option is to consult with an attorney that specializes in the Social Security Disability process. In Florida, The Law Offices of Nancy L. Cavey has years of experience in helping the disabled get through the complicated process of applying for disability benefits. If you have any questions or concerns, contact our offices for a free consultation today.

Answering these broad-based questions isn’t easy. Help is a phone call away. You can contact Nancy Cavey, an experienced long-term disability attorney at 727-477-3263.