If you have a severe disability, it can be frustrating to hear that your application for disability benefits has been denied. Considering the lengthy and strenuous application process, it hurts more if the application is dismissed during a pandemic.
So, where do you start if, unfortunately, your application is denied? Should you reapply or just give in? The truth is, you have three options should your application for disability benefits be turned down?
- File an appeal: If SSA denies your application, the surest way you can preserve your rights to disability benefits is by appealing the denial. Indeed, preserving your rights to disability benefits makes more sense than any other thing. The good thing about appealing is that you will not lose retroactive disability payments. Again, the chances of getting the benefits are higher at a certain level of appeal. If you choose to appeal, make sure to meet the strict appeal deadline.
- Reapply for benefits: If your application for disability benefits is denied, you can opt to reapply the benefits. Ultimately, this means to start applying for the disability benefits for a second time instead of filing an appeal. The only challenge with re-applying for the benefits is that it will be considered as a different application. This means that it might be denied again during the SSA’s initial determination round.
- Do nothing: Although it is not the best option, you can do nothing with the application once denied during the initial determination round. You may be astonished by a number of claimants who give up during the process.
If SSA denies your initial application for social security disability benefits, the very best option is preserving your right by appealing within the scheduled timeline. While appealing, keep in mind that failing to appeal timely or reapplying for the benefits might have the same results.
