Who Makes the SSDI Eligibility Determination?
Before pursuing a claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, an individual must first ensure that they are actually eligible for the process. Federal and state laws governing what constitutes “disability” are the same, and in most states, the agency that makes this crucial initial decision as to whether you can be classified as disabled is known as the Disability Determination Service (DDS).
Generally speaking, about three-quarters of all SSDI eligibility claims are denied at the first stage of the process. The person responsible for rendering the evaluative decision is known as a Disability Examiner, or DE. The DE works closely with a Medical Consultant to review each case, and once the determination has been made, they send the information directly to the Social Security Administration, not the claimant. After reviewing the findings of the state authority, the SSA then contacts the claimant regarding the decision on the claim.
As is the case with an actual SSDI benefits claim hearing, applicants should ensure that they submit to the state authority clear, concise and exhaustive documentation, as well as answer any and all questions to the best of their ability.
