What To Know About Reapplying For Social Security Disability Benefits
Bryan Greenberg
Social Security Disability
Have you been turned down for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA)? You are probably aware of how long the disability review can take, and you do not want to wait for months again for Disability Determination Services (DDS) to review your claim. At this point, you might want to consider reapplying, but you need to know when to submit a new claim. Worsened Condition
If your condition has deteriorated, then this could be the right time to resubmit your claim. However, you need to keep in mind that the process may still take a while. However, there is a way for you to speed up your claim: get copies of your medical records, and submit them directly to the SSA.
Meet Disability Listings
If your claim was denied at first because of the lack of documents or evidence but now you have everything you need, then this may be the best time to reapply. You can also ask for some help from your primary care doctor as they can help you decide if it is indeed ideal to do so.
Compassionate Allowances (CAL) Program
As mentioned, even if your condition has worsened or you have all the documents ready to reapply for a claim, the process will still take some time. You can qualify for expedited review should you have a CAL list disability. With CAL, you can get critical applications reviewed as soon as possible. If you are eligible for the program, then your new application for disability will be flagged right away.
If you are reapplying for SSD benefits, there is a higher chance you will get approved. Why?
• Judges Have More Independence - Second appeals are decided by administrative law judges (ALJs) instead of SSD claims examiners. ALJs can act independently based on the medical evidence presented, unlike SSD claims examiners who need to keep their number of disability approvals down.
• Hearings - When you appeal for your SSD benefits, you will be called to a hearing, which will give you the chance to interact on a personal level with the judge. You will be able to discuss your symptoms and how they prevent you from working.
• Judges Value Doctors’ Opinions - ALJs pay more attention to statements from the treating physicians of applicants when it comes to their physical and mental conditions. Therefore, you need a detailed medical source statement from your doctor.
• Lawyers Help - It is crucial to consider hiring a lawyer when reapplying for SSD benefits. Legal representation will put you in a good position at hearings.
If you need to file another application for a claim, it is a must to work with an experienced, reliable attorney from start to finish. A lawyer can make an argument about why you should get the benefits that is in compliance with the current disability law.
There is nothing wrong with reapplying and going through the appeals process to get the benefits you deserve. All it takes is the right professional to help you get through it.