Woman Struggles With Arthritis, SSDI Denials

Unfortunately, there are many medical conditions that can be debilitating. A person who is struggling with their health may be unable to move properly or even leave their home.

This is the case for a Kansas woman. The 55-year-old woman has lived with rheumatoid arthritis for most of her life — nearly 30 years. She cannot bend her knees and she has lost most of the feeling in her hands. She is disabled to the point where she cannot work or even leave her home.

Based on these issues, you would think that the woman would qualify for disability payments. She has applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), but was met with denials. There apparently was a mistake in paperwork for her disability benefits and it has not yet been resolved.

Despite her condition, the woman is able to do a lot by herself and has lived independently for many years. However, she recently had to move back in with her parents until she gets her SSDI paperwork resolved. The woman reached out to KMBC 9, a local TV station, and asked them for help after her denial in 2023. She appealed again earlier this year but it could take months for a decision to be made.

As the woman waits for a determination, her doctors’ bills, prescriptions, and other medical expenses are piling up. She has faith that things will work out and she will get approved eventually — she’s just not sure when it will happen.

The TV station contacted both state and federal Social Security officials on the woman’s behalf.

The Kansas Department of Children and Families, which handles disability determination services for Kansas, is looking into the woman’s case. The Social Security Administration also responded and said that the agency would reach out to the woman to assist with her questions and concerns. Let’s hope the woman gets the outcome she desires and deserves sooner rather than later.

Why Are There So Many SSDI Denials?

Two-thirds of SSDI applications are denied the first time around. The main reason is insufficient medical evidence. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires clear and comprehensive medical documentation showing a severe impairment that prevents work. Claims often fail because the applicant’s medical records are incomplete or don’t support the severity of the condition.

Here’s what you can do to avoid a denial:

• Document everything. Ensure medical records and evidence align with SSA requirements.
• Understand SSA criteria. Familiarize yourself with SSA’s Blue Book listings of impairments.
• Seek legal help. Disability attorneys can help strengthen applications and handle appeals.
• Appeal denials. Many valid claims are approved at later stages, such as reconsideration or a hearing before an administrative law judge.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

SSDI benefits are important to those who are disabled. Getting denied can be a huge blow. How can you get approved quickly?

A White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon can assess your situation and help you get approved the first time. If not, we can handle your appeal and make it as strong as possible so you get the benefits you deserve. Schedule a consultation today by calling (914) 228-1770 or filling out the online form.

Source:

kmbc.com/article/kansas-woman-struggles-disability-benefit-delays/63120201