Most disability claims get denied on the first try. I want to say that plainly, because a lot of people think you apply for disability, get denied once, and that's the whole process. It isn't. This is a multi-step process, and the numbers change dramatically depending on how far you're willing to take it.
What the numbers look like at each step
Initial application: the SSA grants only around 30 to 40 percent of applicants at this first step.
Reconsideration: if you're denied, you appeal to a second step called the reconsideration stage, where they grant only about 12 percent of cases.
Hearing: if you appeal the reconsideration denial to the hearing level, the SSA goes on to grant nearly 48% of the cases that get there.
48% is basically a coin flip. That's a lot of reasons to keep going, especially if you don't have other income coming in.
The process is built to wear you down
I'll be honest about how I see it: this process is long and cruel by design. It takes about two years to get in front of a disability judge, and I think that's why people simply get frustrated and quit. So it's really important that you not do that. Complete your appeals in a timely fashion every time you get denied, and stick with the process.
Final thought
If you got denied at the initial level, I'm sorry that happened to you. I know it's hard, and I hate that for you. But there is still a lot of reason to pursue your claim. Don't get discouraged, don't give up hope, and get your appeal filed.
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@bradthomasdisability You Have To Appeal If You Want To Win
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