Why Social Security Disability Applications Get Denied

Receiving a Social Security Disability denial letter can feel devastating. You’re already struggling with health problems that prevent you from working, and now the government has rejected your request for help. The truth is, most initial applications are denied, at least at first – roughly two out of every three. Understanding why SSD application denials happen can help you build a stronger case, whether you’re applying for the first time or planning an appeal.

What Medical Evidence Do You Need to Provide?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) needs solid proof of your disability. Think of your medical records as the foundation of your house – without them, everything else falls apart. Many claims fail because applicants don’t submit enough documentation. The SSA wants to see doctors’ notes, test results, hospital records, and treatment histories that paint a clear picture of your condition.

Your medical evidence should tell a consistent story. When there are gaps in treatment or conflicting information between different doctors, the SSA may question how severe your condition really is. Regular doctor visits and detailed notes about how your condition affects your daily life make a significant difference.

Why Does Following Doctor’s Orders Matter So Much?

The SSA expects you to follow your treatment plan. When you miss appointments or stop taking medications, they may think your condition isn’t as serious as you claim. However, the SSA understands that sometimes there are good reasons for not following treatment exactly as prescribed. Common valid reasons for not following treatment include:

• Financial Hardship – You cannot afford the medication or treatment your doctor recommends.
• Severe Side Effects – The treatment makes you feel worse or creates new health problems.
• Mental Health Barriers – Depression or anxiety prevents you from keeping appointments or following through with care.
• Transportation Problems – You have no way to get to medical appointments or pick up prescriptions.

Keep records of these challenges. Write down when and why you couldn’t follow treatment recommendations. This documentation can save your claim.

What Makes a Condition “Severe Enough” for Benefits?

The SSA has specific standards for what counts as a disabling condition. Your health problems must significantly limit your ability to do basic work activities like standing, walking, lifting, remembering instructions, or concentrating. Conditions that can be controlled with medication or therapy often don’t meet these standards, even if they make life difficult.

The SSA maintains a “Listing of Impairments“ – a detailed guide of conditions they consider automatically disabling when certain criteria are met. If your condition isn’t on this list or doesn’t meet the exact criteria, you can still qualify by showing that your limitations prevent you from doing any job, not just your previous work.

How Can Work History Affect Your Claim?

Your employment record plays a bigger role than many people realize. The SSA examines whether you’ve worked enough recently to qualify for benefits and whether your work history matches your claimed limitations. Unexplained gaps in employment or statements suggesting you can still perform some tasks might raise questions.

Be honest and thorough when describing your work history and current abilities. If you stopped working due to disability, explain exactly when and why. Document any attempts to return to work that failed because of your condition.

What Should You Do After a Denial?

Don’t give up if your claim gets denied. You have 60 days from receiving your denial notice to file an appeal, and people with legal representation tend to succeed more often than those who go it alone. An experienced Social Security Disability attorney can help you understand what went wrong with your initial application and build a stronger case for your appeal. At Stine & Associates, P.C., we can review your denial, gather additional evidence, and represent you through the appeals process to help you get the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.