Successfully completing a claim for Social Security Disability benefits can be a long and arduous task, but new data is shedding light on the chances of an approval through each step of the process.

The latest numbers from the Social Security Administration show that only around 20 percent of initial claims are approved. This means only one in five applicants will receive benefits after a case examiner first looks at their applications. Those who face initial denials must rely on the appeals process to get their claims approved.

Only 2 to 3 percent of applications are approved during the reconsideration process, in which a claims examiner takes a second look at an application. In previous years, around ten percent of claims were approved through the appeals council—the number has significantly decreased since 2011.

The difficulty of having a claim approved underscores the benefits of having legal representation by your side while applying for Social Security Disability benefits.

At Stewart & Stewart Attorneys, we have years of experience navigating the Social Security Disability system, and our Indianapolis personal injury attorneys have helped numerous clients get the benefits they need. We are here to help in any way we can, just call (800) 33-33 LAW.