Argyle Social Security Disability Attorneys

Lawyers for Social Security Disability Claims and Appeals in Argyle, TX

Applying for Social Security disability benefits can be a daunting task. Life-changing medical conditions can not only impact a person's ability to work, but many other areas of their life may be affected. Disability benefits can be essential in these situations, but there are many potential pitfalls that could lead to the denial of a claim. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict standards for evaluating disability claims, and unfortunately, many initial applications are denied.

The Law Offices of Coats & Todd provides comprehensive legal support for people in Argyle, Texas who are pursuing Social Security disability benefits. By guiding applicants through the process, gathering critical evidence, submitting the proper forms and documents, and addressing potential issues that may arise, our lawyers do everything we can to make sure our clients can receive the financial assistance they need.

Common Reasons for Social Security Disability Application Denials

The SSA denies a significant number of initial applications for Social Security disability benefits. Many applications are rejected due to avoidable errors or issues that could have been addressed with proper preparation. Some of the most frequent reasons for denial include:

• Insufficient Medical Evidence: The SSA requires comprehensive medical evidence that demonstrates that a person has a severe, long-term disability. If an application does not include recent medical records, diagnostic tests, or detailed treatment notes from doctors, it is more likely to be denied. Applications may also be denied because they fail to include specific documentation showing how an applicant's medical condition has restricted their ability to work.
• Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment: If an applicant has not followed their doctor’s prescribed treatment plan, the SSA may interpret this as a lack of commitment to recovery, or it could suggest that the person's condition is not severe enough to prevent them from working. There may be valid reasons for not following a doctor's recommendations, such as financial limitations or concerns about adverse side effects, but these reasons must be clearly documented.
• Engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): The SSA evaluates whether an applicant can engage in SGA, which is defined as earning above a certain monthly income limit. If the applicant is working and earning income that exceeds this threshold, they will be disqualified from receiving benefits.
• Temporary or Non-Qualifying Conditions: SSD benefits are only available to people with conditions that are expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Conditions that are temporary or do not significantly impair the applicant’s ability to perform work-related tasks may not qualify for SSD benefits.
• Incomplete or Incorrect Application Forms: The SSD application process requires detailed, accurate forms. Errors, missing information, or inconsistencies in an application can lead to denial. For example, failing to provide sufficient details about work history, medical treatment, and other essential information could be a reason to deny a claim.
• Prior Denials Without Substantial Changes: Applicants who have previously been denied may reapply for disability benefits, but if they do not provide new, relevant information or evidence demonstrating that they are disabled, it is likely that their claim will be denied again. Without additional documentation or evidence of a worsening condition, a claim will be less likely to be successful.

Legal Help With the Social Security Disability Application Process

Because there are so many reasons why an application for Social Security disability benefits may be denied, it is important to work with a knowledgeable attorney during the application process. At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, our lawyers can help applicants avoid common errors, and we can make sure the proper information is submitted to increase the likelihood of approval. When you are applying for disability benefits, we can help you in the following ways:

• Comprehensive Eligibility Assessment: Before beginning the application process, we will conduct a thorough assessment of your eligibility, examining your medical history, employment records, and current health status. This evaluation will help us determine whether you meet the SSA’s qualifications for SSD benefits and which program (SSDI or SSI) is best suited to your needs.
• Gathering Medical Records and Evidence: A strong application will include detailed, up-to-date medical records, doctor’s reports, test results, and evidence of ongoing treatment. We will collaborate with your healthcare providers to obtain complete records and specific statements that highlight the limitations you face due to your disability. By providing the proper evidence, we can ensure that your application will demonstrate your eligibility for disability benefits.
• Ensuring Proper Documentation of Treatment: If you have been following a treatment plan, we will help you document this thoroughly. In cases where treatment has been interrupted due to financial constraints, side effects, or other reasons, we can obtain records or statements that explain these circumstances. This will help prevent misunderstandings with the SSA and ensure that your claim will not be unfairly denied.
• Application Preparation and Submission: We will ensure that all application forms are completed accurately, with no missing or incorrect information. We will review every detail of your application before it is submitted to avoid errors that could delay approval or lead to a denial.
• Communication With the SSA: Throughout the application process, we will serve as your representative, communicating with the SSA and addressing any requests for additional information. This proactive approach can help minimize delays and prevent potential issues that could affect your claim.

Contact Our Argyle, Texas Social Security Disability Lawyers

Whether you are applying for Social Security disability benefits or need to determine how to respond to a denied claim, The Law Offices of Coats & Todd is here to provide the support and guidance you need. Contact us today at 972-671-9922 to arrange a free consultation and get legal help to ensure that you can navigate the Social Security disability process successfully.