Navigating the Social Security Disability process can be a challenging and complicated process. One crucial aspect of a disability claim is determining the alleged onset date, or AOD, which is the date an individual claims their disability began. While it may seem like a straightforward step, there are many reasons why a claimant may need to frequently change their AOD, especially at the hearing level.

One of the most common reasons for changing the AOD is due to work performed after the alleged onset date. If an individual is working part-time or performing any work activity above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level, they may be disqualified from receiving Social Security Disability benefits. As a result, the AOD may need to be changed to reflect when the individual stopped working at the SGA level or stopped working entirely.

Another reason for changing the AOD is a lack of medical evidence to support the original date. Social Security Disability claims require objective medical evidence to prove a claimant's disability. If a claimant did not have access to medical treatment until a later date or was misdiagnosed initially, the AOD may need to be changed to reflect when the medical evidence first supports the disability.

Date Last Insured (DLI) issues are another factor that may require a change in the AOD. The DLI is the date when an individual's Social Security coverage ends. To be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI), an individual must have become disabled before their DLI. If the original AOD falls after the DLI, the AOD must be changed to reflect when the claimant was still insured.

Other reasons for changing the AOD may include discrepancies in the medical records, new medical conditions, or the claimant's personal testimony regarding when their disability began.

The alleged onset date is a crucial aspect of a Social Security Disability claim, and there are many reasons why it may need to be frequently changed at the hearing level. From work performed after the AOD to DLI issues, a lack of medical evidence, or new medical conditions, changing the AOD is an intricate process that requires the assistance of an experienced Social Security Disability attorney

Navigating the Social Security Disability process can be daunting, especially when AOD issues arise. That's where Di Lorenzo and Wilcox comes in. As a trusted Social Security Disability law firm, they help clients navigate the complex disability process, including changing the AOD at the hearing level. Serving clients in Southeast Georgia, including Savannah, Richmond Hill, Hinesville, Waycross, Kingsland/ST. Marys, and Brunswick, Di Lorenzo and Wilcox has the experience and expertise to help clients achieve their disability goals.