Navigating Social Security Disability Pitfalls

At Petersen, Parkinson, and Arnold, Brad Parkinson is our Social Security Disability Specialist, with over 27 years of experience. No matter where you are currently at in the application or appeal process, Brad will consider your case with a no-cost consultation. He recognizes that for many, disability benefits are essential to survival, and takes the responsibility of working for those benefits on his clients’ behalf very seriously.

Having worked through the Social Security Disability process countless times, Brad says that there are common pitfalls that happen when people attempt to navigate the system on their own. Here are six of the biggest offenders:

“I have empathy for those in this situation, because when you’re at the point of needing disability benefits, you’re struggling.”
-Brad Parkinson

navigating ssdi claims

  1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
    Failing to provide accurate and thorough medical records, work history, and other essential information can lead to a denial of your claim.
  2. Insufficient Medical Evidence
    Social Security Disability claims rely heavily on medical evidence to establish the severity of your condition. Inadequate medical records or lack of medical opinions supporting your disability can lead to a denial.
  3. Failure to Meet Listing Requirements
    The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a listing of impairments that qualify for disability benefits. If your condition doesn’t meet the specific criteria outlined in these listings, your claim might be denied.
  4. Work Capacity Assessment
    The SSA will assess your ability to work, taking into consideration your residual functional capacity (RFC). If your RFC is deemed to allow you to perform some work, even if it’s not your previous job, your claim might be denied.
  5. Improper DocumentaFon of Non-Medical Factors
    Factors like age, education, and work history can also play a role in your eligibility. Failing to present this information correctly can affect your claim.
  6. Missed Deadlines and Appeals
    Failing to adhere to deadlines for filing appeals or providing requested information can lead to claim denials.

It is true that you can’t change the process or requirements put forward by the Social Security system. You are not required to manage things alone. Working with an attorney with experience
can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.