What Are the Most Common Reasons for SSDI Denials?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is meant to help people who can’t work because of a serious health condition. But getting SSDI benefits isn’t always easy. Many people apply, and a large number of claims get denied. It can be confusing and frustrating when this happens. If your SSDI claim was denied, you’re not alone—and there may be steps you can take to fix the issue.

In this article, we’ll explain the most common reasons for SSDI denials and how to avoid them. Knowing these reasons can help you prepare a stronger case and improve your chances of getting approved.

What Is SSDI?

SSDI stands for Social Security Disability Insurance. It is a program run by the federal government to help people who can no longer work due to a long-term or permanent disability. To get SSDI benefits, you must have worked and paid into Social Security through your paycheck taxes. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical condition, work history, and other factors to decide if you qualify.

Why Are SSDI Claims Denied?

Unfortunately, many SSDI claims are denied at first. In fact, around 60 to 70% of applications are denied the first time. Here are the most common reasons why this happens:

1. Lack of Medical Evidence

One of the main reasons SSDI claims are denied is not having enough medical evidence to prove your disability. The SSA needs clear records showing:

• Your diagnosis
  
  
• The severity of your condition
  
  
• How your condition limits your ability to work
  
  

If your medical records don’t fully explain how your disability affects your daily life, the SSA might decide you’re still able to work. You must include detailed reports from doctors, test results, and treatment notes.

2. Failure to Follow Medical Treatment

If you’re not following your doctor’s treatment plan, the SSA may think you’re not trying to get better. For example, if your doctor recommends physical therapy or medicine and you don’t do it, the SSA might deny your claim.

There are some exceptions, such as if the treatment is too expensive or causes harmful side effects. But in general, it’s important to follow your treatment and keep a record of everything.

3. Your Income Is Too High

SSDI is for people who can’t work at all or can only work a small amount. If you earn too much money each month from working, your claim might be denied. In 2025, if you earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if you’re blind), the SSA might say you are still able to work and not consider you disabled.

4. Short-Term or Non-Severe Disability

SSDI is for long-term disabilities that are expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. If your condition is temporary, like a broken leg that will heal in a few months, your claim will likely be denied.

Also, if your condition does not limit your ability to work full time, the SSA may not find it “severe” enough to qualify for SSDI.

5. Not Enough Work Credits

To get SSDI, you must have worked a certain number of years and earned work credits by paying into Social Security. If you don’t have enough work credits, you may not be eligible. Most people need about 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. Younger workers may need fewer credits.

You can check your work credits by creating an account at SSA.gov.

6. Failure to Cooperate With the SSA

Sometimes, claims are denied because the applicant didn’t respond to the SSA’s requests. This can include:

• Missing doctor appointments scheduled by the SSA
  
  
• Not filling out forms
  
  
• Ignoring calls or letters
  
  

If the SSA can’t get the information they need, they may deny your claim. It’s very important to stay in touch, provide requested paperwork, and attend all appointments.

7. Drug or Alcohol Abuse

If your disability is caused mainly by drug or alcohol use, your SSDI claim might be denied. The SSA wants to know if you would still be disabled if you stopped using these substances. If the answer is no, then you may not qualify for benefits.

However, if your condition is not caused by drug or alcohol use—or if it would still exist without them—you may still be approved.

8. You Can Do Other Types of Work

Even if you can’t do your old job, the SSA may deny your claim if they think you can do another type of work. They will look at your:

• Age
  
  
• Education
  
  
• Skills
  
  
• Work history
  
  

If they think you can adjust to a different job, your claim might be denied. For example, if you can’t lift heavy boxes anymore but can do an office job, the SSA may say you're not disabled.

9. Previous Denial Without Appeal

Some people apply again after being denied instead of appealing the decision. Filing a new SSDI claim without addressing the issues in the first one usually leads to another denial. It’s better to appeal the denial and provide more evidence or explain what was missing.

How to Improve Your SSDI Claim

Here are some ways to make your SSDI application stronger:

• Collect strong medical records from your doctor
  
  
• Follow all treatments and keep notes of side effects
  
  
• Avoid working too much while applying
  
  
• Respond quickly to SSA letters and appointments
  
  
• Work with a disability lawyer who knows how the system works
  
  

A lawyer can help you fill out the forms, gather the right evidence, and argue your case during an appeal if needed.

What to Do If Your SSDI Claim Is Denied

If your SSDI claim is denied, don’t give up. You can:

1. Ask for a reconsideration
   
   
2. Request a hearing in front of a judge
   
   
3. Take your case to a higher level if needed
   
   

There are time limits for appeals, so act quickly. You usually have 60 days to file an appeal after getting the denial letter.

Final Thoughts

SSDI denials are common, but many of them can be fixed. The most common reasons for denial include lack of medical evidence, not following treatment, or not meeting work or income rules. By understanding these issues, you can make your claim stronger and increase your chances of getting the benefits you deserve.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, it’s a good idea to get help from a Social Security Disability lawyer. They understand the rules and can guide you through the process.

Need help with your SSDI claim? Contact Rite Law today for expert legal support!