Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be an overwhelming process—one that far too often leaves vulnerable individuals without the benefits they desperately need. A recent study by the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty (NLCHP) revealed a troubling truth: many Americans become homeless after being wrongly denied Social Security disability benefits for which they are legally eligible.
According to NLCHP data, while approximately 40% of homeless individuals who apply for disability benefits nationwide qualify, only about 14% are actually approved. This startling gap highlights the barriers disabled individuals face when seeking critical financial support, and for some, this denial leads to extreme poverty and homelessness.
At Kaplan Morrell, we understand the devastating impact that wrongful denials of disability benefits can have—and we’re here to help you navigate the complex system and fight for the benefits you deserve.
Why Are So Many Disability Claims Denied?
The Social Security disability system is notoriously complicated, with rules that can be difficult for the average applicant to understand. While some claims are denied because the individual does not meet the strict legal definition of “disabled,” many other claims are wrongly denied for avoidable reasons.
Common reasons for wrongful denials include:
1. Errors Made by Claimants
Many applicants unknowingly make mistakes on their initial applications, such as providing incomplete answers, missing deadlines, or failing to describe their symptoms and limitations in sufficient detail. The disability application is long, technical, and often confusing.
(H3) 2. Lack of Adequate Medical Documentation
To qualify for SSDI or SSI, you must present objective medical evidence that clearly demonstrates your inability to work in any occupation for at least 12 consecutive months. Many people—especially those with limited financial means—struggle to access regular medical care or cannot afford specialists, making it hard to obtain the documentation needed to support their claim.
3. Reliance on Non-MD Providers
Applicants who primarily see Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Physician Assistants (PAs), or other non-physician healthcare providers can face challenges. Despite the skill and dedication of these professionals, the Social Security Administration (SSA) gives more weight to opinions from medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathy (DOs) when determining disability. This technicality often harms deserving claimants.
4. Administrative Mistakes by SSA
SSA claims examiners are human—and they make errors in judgment, paperwork, or application of rules. Without a thorough understanding of disability law, most applicants don’t know when a denial is based on a mistake or misapplication of SSA guidelines.
The Human Impact: When Disability Denials Lead to Homelessness
For many people, being denied disability benefits doesn’t just mean frustration—it can mean losing the ability to pay rent, buy food, or afford life-saving medications. People who are already living close to the edge financially can quickly spiral into homelessness after a wrongful denial.
This is not just a bureaucratic problem—it’s a human tragedy. When a disabling illness or injury takes away your livelihood and you’re denied the safety net that is supposed to protect you, the consequences can be devastating.
How Can You Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved?
Although no one can guarantee approval, there are clear steps you can take to significantly increase your chances of success in the disability application process:
- Seek consistent medical care: Regular appointments and detailed medical records from qualified doctors strengthen your case.
- Accurately describe your limitations: Focus on how your condition affects daily activities, concentration, stamina, and ability to sustain employment.
- Avoid relying solely on non-physician providers: While Nurse Practitioners and PAs provide valuable care, SSA still places more weight on opinions from MDs and DOs.
- Get professional legal help early: The earlier you involve an experienced disability lawyer, the better your chances of presenting a clear, well-supported claim.
Why Legal Help Makes the Difference
At Kaplan Morrell, we have seen time and again how an experienced disability attorney can turn a denied claim into an approved one. From the very first application to appeals and hearings before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), we provide:
- Careful review of medical records
- Guidance on obtaining necessary documentation
- Representation in hearings and appeals
- Clear explanations of your rights and options
We know the system inside and out—and we understand how much is at stake for you and your family. This is why having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney by your side is essential. Call us today at 303-780-7329 for a free, confidential consultation.
