Advice from a Grand Rapids Social Security disability lawyer on what to do if your claim is denied

Far too often people who are unable to work give up when their applications for Social Security disability benefits are denied. In fact, more than half of those whose disability applications are denied fail to appeal. As an experienced Michigan disability lawyer, I can tell you this is a mistake.

An initial denial is common and should not deter you from continuing to pursue benefits. When making the initial decision whether to grant or deny benefits, a Michigan disability evaluator has only a paper file to review. Initial decision makers seldom look beyond the medical evidence in the file. But when you appeal, you will get a hearing before an administrative law judge. You and your Michigan disability lawyer can personally present your case. A judge will observe you and consider your testimony in deciding whether you are unable to work.

While approximately two-thirds of initial applications are denied, over half of the claimants who appeal their denials will ultimately be awarded Social Security disability benefits.

For instructions on how to appeal the denial of your application for Social Security disability benefits, see my article Advice for appealing. You may also want to download my free e-booklet, Helpful suggestions for appealing a denial of benefits available on the left side of this page.

Guidance on filing your application for Social Security disability benefits in Michigan

If you haven’t yet applied for Social Security disability benefits, you may be wondering what it takes to qualify. Are you unable to work because of a physical or mental impairment that has lasted or is expected to last at least a year? If the answer is yes, you could qualify. For further details on what is required to be found disabled, see Answers to 8 common questions and The sequential evaluation process.

To file your application for Social Security disability benefits, choose any one of the following methods:

If you decide to apply by phone or in person, first call 1-800-772-1213 for an appointment. You do not need assistance from a lawyer.

The application forms will ask you for a lot of information. You may want to collect this information in advance. In particular you will need:

  • A list of all the jobs you had in the 15 years before you became unable to work, and for each job, the dates and hours you worked, and the rate of pay.
  • Contact information for each of your doctors and hospitals, dates you were seen, reason for the visit, and treatment received.
  • A list of your medications, who prescribed them and why, and any side effects.
  • What medical tests you have undergone, where and when you had them, and what doctor sent you.

To learn more about applying by review Answers to 8 common questions and Tips for applying.

An experienced Michigan disability lawyer can help

The best advice I can offer, whether you are about to apply or appeal, is to provide all the information requested by the Social Security Administration as truthfully as you can. Neither exaggerate nor minimize your physical or mental problems and limitations.

My website is filled with 100 pages of additional information that will help you better understand the Social Security disability appeal and determination process. I am also happy to personally answer any questions you may have.

If your disability application has been denied, I can handle your appeal for you. I will apply the skills and knowledge I have gained in more than 20 years of representing Social Security disability claimants in Grand Rapids and across Western Michigan.

Please provide a brief description of your claim using the short claim evaluation form to your left, and I will respond promptly. Or you may contact my office.

Thomas M. Stellard
Grand Rapids, Michigan Social Security disability lawyer