As a Social Security Disability Attorney, I see the Social Security Administration (SSA) turn people down for a variety of reasons. One of the common ways you may be turned down for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is because the SSA states you do not meet its Durational Requirement. This is a fairly easy way for them to turn down your claim, but you can appeal this decision and many times find yourself with a favorable outcome in the long run.
What is the “Durational Requirement”?
The language the SSA uses requires that you must have an impairment lasting or expected to last at least 12 months. As you can tell, this can be a pretty subjective standard. The SSA makes this determination on the current medical records they have on hand. Unfortunately, your medical record may be incomplete when they make this determination. You can appeal this decision and if you believe you are unable to work and will continue to be unable to work it is most likely in your best interest to file a Request for Reconsideration or Request for Hearing to move your case along. You have approximately 60 days to file these appeals and it is very important to do so in a timely manner so you do not have to file another initial application.
It is also important to note your impairment must prevent you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least 12 months in a row. What this essentially means is that you cannot receive disability benefits when your wages are over SGA. This is a monetary amount establishing a cap you cannot go over. Many of my clients have difficulty grasping this concept when they are holding down a full time job while working through severe pain. Many of the SSA’s rules are hard and fast and difficult to get around. The concept of SGA can be one of those rules.
The bottom line is you should appeal unfavorable decisions from the Social Security Administration if you feel you have a valid legal argument. Some of these rules may be difficult to understand and there are trained professionals in this area that many times can provide consultations at no charge. Knowing your rights and acting on a timely basis can enhance your ability to get the benefits you have worked so hard for.
Social Security Disability: Claim Denied?
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