You may have received a letter from the Social Security Administration denying your claim for disability. This is very common - approximately 65% of claims are denied at the initial level and approximately 85% are denied at the reconsideration level.
It is important to carefully read the disability denial letter you received from the Social Security Administration to see why your claim was denied and determine the best path forward to help you receive the disability benefits you deserve.
Why Was My Disability Claim Denied?
There are many reasons why a disability claim might be denied. Some of the more common reasons are explained below.
1) Medical Evidence
Cases are often denied because the medical records provided to the Social Security Administration did not sufficiently support a finding of disability. The Social Security Administration might have determined that your impairments were not severe enough to be considered disabling. They also might have determined that your impairments were severe, but did not last (or will not last) for at least 12 months. It is important to send all available medical evidence to the Social Security Administration to help enable them to make an informed decision.
Additionally, keep in mind that the Social Security Administration needs to see objective medical evidence that supports a finding of disability. Simply reporting various symptoms is insufficient to support a disability claim. Some examples of helpful evidence include examination findings, medical imaging reports, and letters from doctors stating that an individual is unable to work.
2) Work Activity
Your claim will likely be denied if you are working while applying for disability and your income exceeds the amount needed to be considered "substantial gainful activity." Click here for more information.
3) Procedural Reasons
A disability claim might also be denied because of procedural reasons. For example, a claim might be denied if you apply for SSDI and have a date last insured (DLI) that is prior to the date your disability began.
A claim might also be denied due to a prior denied claim. If you filed for disability and were denied, and then subsequently filed a new claim, your new claim might be denied based upon your prior denial. This is one reason that, in general, it is best to exhaust all appeals options before filing a completely new claim. The Moss Disability Group can help you in determining whether a prior decision can be "reopened."
4) A Failure to Cooperate
Dealing with the disability application process can be time-consuming and frustrating. However, it is imperative that you follow all instructions from the Social Security Administration. For example, if you are asked by the Social Security Administration to attend a consultative examination with a doctor, it is crucial that you attend as scheduled. A failure to cooperate with the Social Security Administration can result in your claim being denied.
5) Too Many Financial Assets
This reason is only applicable if you applied for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a needs-based program and you can have no more than $2,000 in countable resources in order to qualify ($3,000 for a couple). A claim for SSI might be denied if you have too many assets. More information can be found here.
Key Takeaways
- Carefully read the disability denial letter you received from the Social Security Administration.
- Be sure to cooperate fully with requests from the Social Security Administration.
- Send all available medical evidence to the Social Security Administration.