When Your Social Security Disability Claim Is Denied
If you paid into the system and now have an occupational illness or disabling injury that is serious enough to prevent you from working — or if you are not expected to recover at all — you may be entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, people with serious medical conditions are nonetheless turned down.
At the Smith Magram Michaud Colonna, P.C., law firm in Burlington, we recognize that getting Social Security benefit checks as soon as possible is important to you. Our attorneys will skillfully and aggressively advocate for you in the claims and appeals process, for as long as it takes to get you qualified for Social Security Disability.
Disability Claim Denied? Need Help To Get Started?
We represent SSDI claimants in Burlington County and throughout New Jersey. Start with a free initial consultation by calling toll free at 609-589-0649..
Experienced SSDI Attorneys Serving South Jersey
Most SSDI claims are initially denied for a variety of reasons, including an incomplete application. Your chances of obtaining the benefits you deserve improve significantly if you join forces with a skilled disability lawyer. Our attorneys have a reputation for positive results in SSDI cases.
Was your Social Security Disability claim denied? We can shepherd you through the SSDI appeals process — reconsideration, an administrative law disability hearing, an Appeals Council review or court appeals. We will give you the information you need to bolster your claim and make sound decisions about your future. We have secured benefits for many South Jersey and Central New Jersey clients via hearings and appeals.
We Helped Many Clients Qualify For SSDI
Our full-service law firm deals with difficult SSDI claim denials issues every day. We are fully prepared to build the strongest case possible for you while addressing concerns such as:
- Benefits eligibility
- Timelines and expectations for processing and approval of an SSDI claim
- Issues involving continuing to work, your financial alternatives, and balancing of two or more types of benefits
Our recognized expertise with SSDI issues extends to claims for people older than 50 years of age, and a wide array of qualifying SSDI conditions, including disability for mental disorders. We can tackle any complex case, including those related to terminations of benefits — and perform these services on a contingency fee basis. You owe no attorney fee unless our help with your appeal is successful and you win the benefits you need.
At Smith Magram Michaud Colonna, P.C., we make your SSDI benefits claim a top priority at our law firm. From start to finish of the legal process, your lawyer will stay responsive to you every step of the way. Call 609-589-0649 toll free, for a free initial consultation with a Burlington Social Security Disability attorney, or contact us online. We respond promptly to email messages and can visit you at your home or hospital room if your disability prevents you from traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Security Disability
What are the most common reasons Social Security Disability is denied in New Jersey?
Most claims are denied due to weak or incomplete medical evidence. Social Security is less concerned with your diagnosis than with how your condition or combination of conditions limits your ability to work. Claims will also be denied if there is not enough evidence that a condition is expected to last at least 12 months or when there are gaps in treatment. Missing paperwork, earnings above the allowable substantial gainful income threshold and a failure to follow prescribed care are also reasons for denial.
How long does it take to get a disability hearing in Burlington County?
It typically takes 12 to 18 months to obtain a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge in New Jersey. The timeline is driven by a state-wide (and national) backlog of claims.
Can I get SSDI benefits for mental disorders like anxiety or PTSD?
Yes, mental health disorders such as anxiety and PTSD can qualify for SSDI benefits. The key is showing that your condition significantly limits your ability to function in a work setting. Commonly, difficulties with concentration, social interactions, maintaining pace, adjusting to changes in routine and managing daily tasks are associated with mental health disorders. Medical records, treatment history and consistent documentation of symptoms are critical to support an SSDI claim.
How do the SSDI grid rules apply to applicants over 50 in New Jersey?
The grid rules make it easier for applicants over 50 years of age to qualify for SSDI by factoring in the realities of someone’s age along with their education, work history and physical limitations. In general, if someone over 50 cannot perform their past work and has limited transferable skills, they are generally not considered easily retrainable and the rules may direct a finding of disability.
What conditions automatically qualify you for disability?
Social Security maintains a list of severe impairments that qualify for benefits, so long as very specific criteria are met. Examples include advanced cancers (such as inoperable or metastatic cancer), neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis or ALS, and severe cardiac conditions such as chronic heart failure. Serious mental health conditions, including schizophrenia or severe bipolar disorder may also qualify if they cause marked functional limitations. Even with these conditions, approval depends on strong medical evidence showing the severity of the condition and how it limits the ability to work.