Some Disability Claims That Are Harder to Prove than Others for SSDI

One of the key challenges in proving disability claims lies in the subjectivity of symptoms. While some disabilities have clear and objective indicators, such as an amputated limb or visual impairment, others are invisible and difficult to quantify. Conditions like chronic pain, mental health disorders, and fibromyalgia often lack visible evidence, making it harder to establish the severity and impact of the disability. As a result, individuals with these conditions face an uphill battle when it comes to proving their eligibility for SSDI.

Lack of Medical Evidence

Another hurdle in disability claims is the availability and adequacy of medical evidence. To qualify for SSDI, applicants must provide comprehensive medical documentation that supports their disability claim. However, not all disabilities have well-defined diagnostic criteria or regularly conducted tests. In cases where medical evidence is scarce or inconclusive, claimants may struggle to provide the necessary documentation, leading to a higher burden of proof. This challenge is particularly pronounced for conditions that are still poorly understood or relatively new, such as certain autoimmune disorders or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Fluctuating Conditions

Certain disabilities exhibit fluctuating symptoms, making it difficult to demonstrate a consistent and debilitating impairment. Conditions like multiple sclerosis, lupus, or bipolar disorder can present varying levels of functioning over time, which adds complexity to the disability claim process. Proving that the disability significantly impairs daily activities and prevents substantial gainful employment becomes particularly challenging when the symptoms fluctuate, leading to skepticism and increased scrutiny by SSDI evaluators.

Lack of Longitudinal Records

For SSDI claims, it is essential to provide a detailed medical history that demonstrates the duration and progression of the disability. However, some individuals may face difficulty in obtaining comprehensive longitudinal records due to various reasons, such as lack of access to consistent healthcare, financial constraints, or gaps in medical treatment. Without a solid track record of medical documentation, proving the existence and impact of a disability becomes a more formidable task.

Subject to Misconceptions and Bias

Disability claims can also be influenced by societal misconceptions and biases. Invisible disabilities, mental health conditions, and chronic pain are often stigmatized and misunderstood, leading to skepticism from both SSDI examiners (DE) and the public. This bias can result in a higher burden of proof for individuals with these conditions, making their claims more challenging to substantiate.

Get Professional Help

Proving a disability claim for SSDI can be a complex and arduous process. The subjective nature of symptoms, lack of medical evidence, fluctuating conditions, limited longitudinal records, and bias contribute to the varying degrees of difficulty in establishing eligibility for support. It is crucial for individuals pursuing disability benefits to understand these challenges and work with experienced advocates who can provide guidance throughout the application process. Seeking legal help from a professional disability attorney increases your chances of receiving disability payments, which will help you meet your financial needs sooner. 

You can seek legal help from a disability law attorney at The Law Office of Irene Ruzin by completing a free case evaluation.