Working adults usually apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits because they cannot continue to work due to medical concerns. Their medical conditions prevent them from continuing to support themselves and leave them financially vulnerable. SSDI benefits can provide basic support for necessary cost-of-living expenses until professionals reach retirement age.
Unfortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not always agree with an individual’s claim that they qualify for SSDI benefits. Many applicants receive letters denying their claims instead of the support that they expected. Those applicants then have the option of appealing the unfavorable determination.
How frequently do SSDI appeals lead to favorable outcomes?
Many applicants prevail in appeals
The SSA provides statistical information about the outcome of applications. Information looking at claims submitted between 2010 and 2019 shows a relatively low initial approval rate. Only approximately 21% of applicants receive benefits when they initially apply.
Appeals increase the overall approval rate to 31%. The SSA reports that approximately 2% of applicants obtain benefits through a reconsideration performed by SSA employees. Another 8% of applicants prevail when they attend hearings in front of administrative law judges.
A successful appeal leads to future benefit payments. Applicants may even be eligible for backdated benefits. They have an opportunity to correct paperwork mistakes, undergo additional medical testing and even secure the testimony of witnesses who can validate their claim that they cannot work.
Particularly if the applicant applied on their own initially, they may want to secure support when they pursue an SSDI benefits appeal, and that’s okay. Correcting prior issues and gathering additional evidence can increase the likelihood of a successful appeal.