Principal Attorney
According to Social Security’s own data, as many as four in five initial disability applications get denied. Many of these claim denials are based on simple, preventable issues like missed deadlines, insufficient evidence, or excess income. The good news is that you can fix these issues before they happen if you know what to look for.
Before you file for benefits or demand an appeal, consider the following factors that might cause the Social Security Administration (SSA) to reject your claim.
Incomplete or Inaccurate Medical Records
The SSA needs detailed medical evidence to confirm your condition. Your records must include a doctor’s explanation of how your symptoms limit your ability to work. If your records are outdated, unclear, or missing test results, your claim may fail.
Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment
If the evidence suggests that you have been ignoring your doctor’s instructions, the SSA may assume your condition isn’t that serious. Failing to take your prescribed medications or attend therapy sessions can hurt your case. If you have a valid reason for stopping treatment, you’ll need to explain it clearly with supporting evidence.
Earning Too Much from Work
You can’t earn more than a set amount each month and still qualify for benefits. If your earnings show that you can work at a steady pace and make enough money to support yourself each month, the SSA may decide you don’t qualify for benefits. Even part-time work can lead to a denial if your income exceeds certain limits.
Short-Term or Non-Severe Conditions
The SSA only approves claims for serious, long-term health problems. If your condition improves within a few months or doesn’t prevent you from working, your claim won’t meet the standard for a true disability. You must show how your health limits your ability to work full-time on a regular basis to qualify.
Lack of Consistency in Statements or Records
The SSA will review all of the forms, interviews, and records you submit with your application. If your answers change over time or don’t line up with what your doctor says, the SSA may question your honesty. Be consistent in everything you report and make sure your doctor’s notes match your statements about your condition.
Failure to Cooperate
After you apply, the SSA may ask you to complete forms, attend exams, or submit more records. If you don’t respond to requests or if you skip certain steps, Social Security may deny your claim. Missing a deadline or ignoring an exam request can lead to a quick rejection.
Prior Denials Without New Evidence
If the SSA previously denied your claim and nothing has changed, they won’t approve it the next time. You’ll need to submit new medical records or other proof that your condition has gotten worse for the SSA to reconsider its decision. Filing the same claim again without updates will almost always lead to another denial.
Drug or Alcohol Abuse Contributing to the Disability
The SSA will deny your claim if the evidence shows that drug or alcohol use is causing or worsening your condition. If you could recover enough to work by discontinuing substance use, you likely won’t qualify. However, if your condition would still keep you from working, even without the substance use, you may still qualify for benefits.
How a Disability Lawyer Can Help Prevent Mistakes
A lawyer can help you collect the right medical records, complete forms accurately, and respond to SSA requests as necessary. They can also guide you through the appeals process and argue on your behalf if your claim is denied. Working with an attorney to get things right from the start can help you avoid delays and give your case a stronger chance.
If you have questions about a denied claim or need help applying, get answers from Disability Advocates Group. We know what the SSA looks for and how to avoid common mistakes. Contact us now for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help.