Social Security Administration Reports Decline In Approval Rates For Disability Benefits

December 4, 2013

When an individual is left unable to work due to a mental or physical condition, they may be entitled to receive Social Security Disability benefits. However, the process of being approved for such benefits has become increasingly difficult in recent years, leaving many who are legitimately disabled battling for assistance.

The Social Security Disability Lawyers with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin explain data indicates the number of claims that are denied each year is steadily rising. In fact, research shows that almost 60 percent of initial claims are denied.

The Social Security Administration’s Office of Disability Adjudication and Review reports that in 2010, an estimated 64 percent of new Social Security Disability cases were approved. The following year though, that number dropped to 54 percent and only plummeted further to 47 percent in 2012. This year, only 42 percent of cases are expected to be approved.

The growing number of Social Security Disability denials being recorded has led to a spike in the number of Social Security Disability Appeals being filed in courts. Some dockets have seen growth of as much as three times their previous case volume.

The team of attorneys with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin point out these issues show the importance of discussing your legal rights and options with a qualified attorney prior to applying for Social Security disability benefits.