Common Reasons Social Security Disability Claims Get Denied

The process of applying for a Social Security Disability claim may not be such a difficult task, but that doesn’t mean it will be accepted immediately. Truthfully, approximately 68% of applications from disabled workers were denied in 2023, according to the Social Security Administration

But don’t lose hope. You need to understand the reason why your disability application has been denied. And once you learn from your mistakes, you may have a chance of getting your claim approved.

 Knowing what to watch for could very well be the determining factor of success or frustration. So let’s take a look at some denial reasons, enabling you to make a better disability application.

Insufficient Medical Evidence

One of the very common reasons for denial of application is insufficient medical evidence. What you need is clear evidence of your disability.

When you file for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, amass medical records that can adequately document your diagnosis and treatment. There should be a clear description of how your condition interferes with your daily activities. 

Work closely with doctors and providers to make sure they create detailed reports in support of your case. Social security disability lawyer Derrick D. Kee says that you can ask an administrative law judge to look over your case again even if your claim has been denied.

Taking these measures will increase the chances of your approval.

Lack of Work History

If you have not worked enough or have not amassed enough work credits, your claim may be ruled out simply due to procedural requirements. This can create more frustration when one has had to face troubles in consistently maintaining gainful employment. 

One of the requirements of the Social Security Administration is your work history, so you have to make sure that all of your previous jobs or training are listed in your file. If you think you’re in a support group, talk to people who have been through the same things you have. They might be able to give you some ideas on what to do next.

Not Following Prescribed Treatments

When an applicant does not follow the advice given by his physician, it can lead to a final denial of the claim. The Social Security Administration expects that individuals will actually try to help themselves by abiding by their treatments, medications, and participation in therapy sessions. 

Should you not undergo these treatments, it would look as if you were not really concerned about your condition, thereby raising a red flag before the claim. 

Failure to Meet the Definition of Disability

Many applicants believe their conditions qualify for disability benefits; yet, if the conditions do not constitute the strict Social Security Administration (SSA) definition of disability, the claim will be denied. The condition must substantially restrict performance of basic work activities for at least 12 months. 

It is not enough to have merely a medical diagnosis. What you need to prove is how this condition affects your ability to live daily life and work. The SSA seeks evidence of your disability. 

In this case, you need to include medical records and statements from doctors that can prove the reality of your condition. You can also present documentation that can testify that your condition is affecting your work abilities.

If your impairment does not meet these criteria, you can’t convince them that you truly need aid. 

Incomplete or Inaccurate Application Information

Your SSD claim has to be correctly filled out with all the possible information and relevant details since, in the appearance of any errors, discrepancies, or missing information, it will most likely be denied. 

As mentioned above, missing items like medical records or work history can raise issues with the Social Security Administration. 

Wrong information is another reason why claims are delayed. So it’s best to double-check your document before submitting it. To be safer, you could even ask a trusted friend or family member to review the submission.