Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides valuable benefits to individuals who qualify. However, many applicants with legitimate claims are denied benefits and achieve success only after they seek an experienced attorney’s representation. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies applications for various reasons, a few of which are explained below.

Why Social Security Disability Benefits May Be Denied

1. Not Meeting SSA Standards

To obtain Social Security disability benefits, applicants must be totally disabled according to the SSA. Total disability means not being capable of engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) because of a mental or physical impairment that doctors either expect will result in death or has lasted, or is expected to last, continuously for at least 12 months. Under the law, partial or short-term conditions are not eligible.

2. Not Following the Prescribed Therapy

If a doctor prescribes therapy that is expected to restore your ability to engage in SGA and you do not follow the therapy, the SSA can deny your Social Security disability application. However, attorneys will argue for exceptions in these situations. For instance, if their client can’t afford the treatment, another doctor disagrees with the therapy recommendation, or they need physical assistance to carry out the therapy because of paralysis or another condition, they may be excused.

3. Drug or Alcohol Addiction

The SSA denies Social Security disability applications when an individual is addicted to drugs or alcohol and that fact contributes to the disability claimed. They may ask a medical evaluator whether the applicant would still suffer from their condition were it not for their substance abuse.

If you are disabled, have applied for Social Security disability, and were turned down, or you want to apply for the benefits, contact Goddard & Hammontree LLC, in Dalton, GA. These attorneys fight for their clients’ rights and best interests. With 58 combined years of legal work behind them, they offer sound advice and strong advocacy to residents in the Murray County area. Visit them online to learn more about their Social Security law and workers’ compensation experience. Call (706) 278-0464 today to schedule your confidential consultation.