The Social Security Administration (SSA) doesn’t just oversee retirement benefits. The SSA also manages critical disability programs. Working professionals who develop debilitating medical issues may sometimes be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
Some working adults facing medical challenges assume that applying for SSDI benefits is likely a waste of time. They may have heard from others that the SSA rejects every application for disability benefits.
Is it true that all applicants must fight for fair consideration when requesting SSDI benefits?
Initial approval rates are somewhat low
It is not true that the SSA rejects every disability application immediately. In fact, the SSA uses specialized computer programs to expedite the review process for applicants who are likely to receive approval for debilitating and terminal medical conditions.
However, a significant percentage of those applying initially do have to appeal to secure benefits. According to a review of the SSA’s own data collected between 2010 and 2019, only about 21% of applicants get approved initially.
An average of another 10% of applicants prove that they qualify for benefits by appealing an unfavorable initial determination. Those statistics make it clear that applying initially is a worthwhile endeavor. It is also readily apparent that appealing after a rejection can be a smart decision for those who cannot work because of their medical challenges.
Securing the assistance of an experienced SSDI attorney can help struggling professionals navigate what can be a very intimidating system. Assistance when applying for SSDI benefits or appealing a decision can help applicants focus on adjusting to their medical challenges, rather than trying to manage complicated paperwork.
