The reality of Social Security Disability is that nearly two thirds of applications are initially rejected. While in many cases the victim’s disability does not qualify, in many other cases the applicant simply failed to provide the necessary documentation or did not properly fill out all the necessary paperwork. The application process can be tricky, especially for someone already suffering from an illness, injury or mental condition that prohibits them from working.

As a reminder, your case must fit two basic criteria. You must have an illness, injury or mental condition that is serious enough that you are unable to maintain gainful employment, and your condition must be expected to last at least a year or ultimately end in death. If you fit both of these criteria, you have a better chance of your application getting approved.

Thankfully, there is an appeals process one could take if an application is initially rejected. First, you can submit a request for reconsideration. If this also fails, you can have a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. If that also fails, you may then have your case reviewed by a Social Security Administration Appeals Council. Lastly, you can file a claim in federal court.

If your Social Security Disability application was rejected, it might be a sign that you need some help. If you believe that your application should have been approved or if you are uncertain whether or not you should actually qualify, it would likely be in your best interests to speak with a legal professional familiar with Social Security Disability to look at your situation and determine how they can help improve your chances of success.