If a chronic illness or other medical impairment prevents you from working on a full-time basis, you may be qualified for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. Unfortunately, many people struggle to get these benefits. Indeed, according to Comprehensive data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), only 31% of Social Security disability applications filed between 2010 and 2019 resulted in a final determination of benefits in favor of the applicant. At The Law Office of Paul J. Dombeck, PLLC, we have extensive experience handling disability cases. Here, our Phoenix Social Security disability attorney provides an overview of the steps to winning an SSD claim in Arizona. 

Step #1: Know the Social Security Disability Eligibility Requirements

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is the primary Social Security disability program. SSDI has strict eligibility requirements. In order to get your SSDI claim in Arizona approved, you must meet the eligibility standards. It is useful to understand how those requirements apply at the outset of the claims process. There are two broad requirements for SSDI eligibility: 

• Technical Eligibility: Not everyone is covered by Social Security Disability Insurance. To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must have accumulated a sufficient number of work credits based on your taxable work history. Most applicants need 40 credits—20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years prior to the onset of disability. However, the exact number can vary depending on your age at the time disability begins. Some people may need fewer years of work experience to qualify for SSDI. 
• Medical Eligibility: There are also strict medical eligibility rules. Medical eligibility for SSDI requires that you have a disability that significantly limits your ability to perform basic work-related activities, thus preventing you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA). The condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or expected to result in death. The SSA uses a list of qualifying medical conditions and a five-step process for unlisted impairment to evaluate whether an applicant’s disability meets the required severity to qualify for SSDI benefits.

Note: If you do not meet the eligibility requirements to file for SSDI benefits, you may have an option to get SSD support through the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. SSI does not have an earning-credits requirement like SSDI claims do.

 However, it has strict financial eligibility rules. 

Step #2: Ensure that You Have Received the Proper Diagnostic and Ongoing Medical Care

Medical documentation is at the foundation of any successful Social Security disability claim. To strengthen your SSDI claim, you should ensure you have undergone a thorough medical diagnostic to confirm your disability. Along with other things, this includes regular visits to healthcare professionals to demonstrate the seriousness and continuity of your condition. Beyond that, it is also crucial to follow all prescribed treatments and therapies, as your adherence is a key factor in the evaluation process. Document every type of medical care that you get. 

Step #3: Submit a Strong, Well-Supported Initial SSD Application

The SSA will deny a Social Security disability application if there are any material flaws. When applying for SSDI, applicants in Arizona need to be sure to compile all necessary documents, including detailed medical records, a work history report, and their personal identification. To be successful, your application should clearly outline how your disability adversely affects your ability to work. In most cases, this means relying on specific medical evidence and referencing supporting statements from treating physicians. Your lawyer can help you use the SSA’s checklist to avoid missing critical information that could delay processing. A well-prepared application increases your chances of approval and reduces the likelihood of needing an appeal.

Step #4: Carefully Read and Review the Denial Letter (an Attorney Can Help)

Unfortunately, SSD denials happen. Indeed, even seemingly strong claims sometimes end up facing a denial letter. You should know that an initial denial is not the end of the road. The official SSA data shows that approximately one-third of people who get their Social Security disability claim approved initially had to deal with a denial. If your SSDI application is denied, carefully review the denial letter to understand the reasons provided by the SSA. The letter will detail why your claim was rejected. Some common reasons for denial include:

• Incomplete information in the application; 
• Alleged insufficient medical evidence; and
• Alleged non-qualification under SSDI rules. 

Step #5: File an Appeal to Challenge a Social Security Disability Denial

If your SSDI application is denied, you have the right to file an appeal, a crucial step in challenging the decision. You should not let an unfair denial of your benefits stand unchallenged. The initial appeal is called a request for reconsideration. Here is an overview: 

• Reconsideration: The Social Security Administration explains that you have 60 days from the date of your denial to submit a request for reconsideration. During this step, your entire claim is reviewed anew by a medical consultant and examiner who were not involved in the original decision. You can correct problems with your application during reconsideration. Indeed, it is essential to submit any new medical evidence or documents that have become available since your initial application to provide the fullest picture of your disability.

There are additional levels of appeal if your claim is denied at the Reconsideration stage. The next step is a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), where you can present your case in person and bring witnesses, such as medical or vocational experts. If the ALJ denies your claim, you can then appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Top Social Security Disability Lawyer

At The Law Office of Paul J. Dombeck, PLLC, our Phoenix Social Security disability attorney is able to help you understand the SSDI claim and appeal process and help you assess your case evidence and improve your chances of a successful outcome. If you have any questions about SSD claims, we can help. Contact our personal injury law firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation. From our Phoenix office, we handle SSD claims and SSD appeals in Maricopa County and throughout Arizona.