|  | Healthcare Industry | Health Insurance

Reasons Why Social Security Would Deny an Initial Claim

People may have their Social Security claims denied simply because they don't meet the eligibility requirements. Nonetheless, an initial denial doesn't mean you won't eventually obtain benefits that you're qualified to receive. Claims are commonly resubmitted after applicants provide additional information that supports their eligibility for benefits.

  1. Denied Claims

    • According to the Findlaw website, the Social Security Administration denies more than half of the initial claims for assistance that it receives. Nonetheless, Findlaw notes that the SSA eventually approves many claims after applicants appeal their initial denial of benefits. Applications are sometimes denied because people didn't follow the claims process. It's important to follow all of the instructions included with an application for benefits. Otherwise, you could tie up your application for weeks and delay benefits you need.

    Eligibility

    • The Social Security Administration sends applicants a notice explaining the reason form denial of benefits. Read that notice carefully to determine why you received a denial. Gather any additional information the notice says you need to supply so you can resubmit your claim. The SSA frequently denies people disability benefits because they make more than $1,000 per month, which is more than the eligibility requirements allow. Blind applicants can qualify for benefits if they make less than $1,640 per month. People who likely won't be disabled for at least 12 months also are denied disability benefits, unless they have a fatal condition.

    Medical Records

    • Your disability claim also might be denied if you won't release your medical records to the Social Security Administration. The Nolo law information website says medical records play a vital role in decisions about disability claims. People who don't have regular physicians who treat a condition related to their disability may be required to have a medical examination at the government's expense. Disability applicants who refuse to undergo such exams also may have their claims denied.

    Work Credits

    • According to the SSA, people born in 1929 or later generally need 40 Social Security credits to receive approval for retirement benefits. Workers earn up to four credits every year. Therefore, you need to work a total of at least ten years to avoid denial of retirement benefits. Each person's earnings are posted to a Social Security record, and workers receive credits based on their earnings. Contact your local Social Security office if you aren't sure whether you've earned enough credits to receive retirement benefits.

Health Insurance - Related Articles