If you become disabled, then you may want to apply for Social Security Insurance (SSI). While you may need the money to survive, the process of getting on SSI is not easy. Approximately 67 percent of all cases are denied the first time and 87 percent on denied on their first appeal. There are many different reasons that your SSI claim may be denied. Here are some of the most common reasons SSI is denied.
Make Too Much Money
In order to qualify for SSI, you must make less than the amount set by the government. That amount is $1,180 per month for people who are not blind. Investments do not count, and there are special rules for people who are self-employed. Therefore, if you make more than the set amount, be sure to lower your income.
Impairment Not Long Enough or Severe Enough
The person approving your SSI request must believe that your disability will last at least 12 months. It must also be severe enough that you cannot work. Generally, your bones must not be healing, and you are under the care of a doctor who says they may never heal completely. You may also want to discuss with the SSI official how your pain level is affecting your sleep and the ability to concentrate.
Cannot Find You
Many people are forced to move while they are waiting for their SSI payments to be approved. If you do, then make sure that Social Security can still find you. If you choose to work with an attorney, then make sure that they know where to locate you at all times.
Failure to Show Up for a Clinical Evaluation
Some claims are denied because you fail to show up for a clinical evaluation. Attending these exams with doctors at the government's expense is crucial to winning your appeal. If you have a legitimate excuse for not being able to attend an evaluation, then make sure to discuss it ahead of time. If transportation is a problem, then there are free or almost-free services that can help.
In addition to your federal SSI payment that can be up to $750 in 2018, Utah law also orders the state to pay an additional amount to recipients. Therefore, you should never try to appeal your denial by yourself. Instead, get good help in building the strongest case possible. T.R. Spencer Law Office would love to visit with you about your case.