Most people never require Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. SSDI benefits are only available to individuals with truly debilitating medical conditions.
Applicants have to prove that they are completely unable to work and support themselves. They also need to have sufficient work history to qualify and documentation showing that the condition is likely to last 12 months or longer.
Even those who theoretically meet SSDI standards could find themselves facing a denied application. Is the appeals process successful often enough to make it worth the effort?
Many people gain benefits through appeals
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides statistical data about recent claims. A long-term analysis of claims can help applicants understand their options and their likelihood of success.
According to a review of all claims filed between 2010 and 2019, an average of 21% of applicants receive benefits when they initially apply each year. The final average approval rate after appeals is 31%.
An additional 10% of applicants secure benefits through the appeals process. The SSA reports that an average of 2% of applicants receive benefits through an internal reconsideration of their application. Another 8% on average secure benefits through a hearing in front of an administrative law judge.
SSDI appeals are responsible for roughly a third of all SSDI approvals. Not only do applicants increase their chances of getting benefits when they appeal, but they may also be eligible for backdated benefits to cover the time that they had to wait during the appeal.
Discussing an upcoming SSDI application or a possible appeal with a lawyer can help people navigate what can be a frustrating process. While some people do need to appeal to get benefits, doing so is often worthwhile for qualified applicants.