Why Was My Social Security Disability Application Denied?

If your application for Social Security Disability benefits was denied, do not assume it is because you do not qualify or because you are not too disabled to work. The truth is that the Social Security Administration (SSA) initially denies the majority of all SSD and SSI applications. Most of these denials come not because the applicant does not have a debilitating injury or condition that prevents them from working, but because the applicant simply doesn’t fully understand the complex Social Security Disability benefits process.

What are some of the most common reasons that Social Security Disability applications are denied?

• Your application lacks medical proof that you are unable to work. The SSA determines if you qualify for disability benefits based on many aspects, but at the heart of the decision is whether or not you are able to work with your medical condition or injury. If you don’t prove this in your application – through medical records and doctors’ notes – you will most likely be denied.
• You have not adhered to your doctor’s recommended treatment. Even if you are too sick or handicapped to work, you must also prove in your application that you have followed doctors’ orders when it comes to treating and managing your condition. If you are unwilling to cooperate with a medical professional’s prescribed treatment and there is no valid reason for your inability to cooperate, then you will most likely be denied.
• You do not provide all needed documentation or do not respond to requests for more information. One of the most common reasons for denial is that the applicant simply doesn’t jump through all of the required hoops. If you miss a scheduled medical exam or do not file all of the appropriate documentation, your application will not pass the test.
• You have been denied disability benefits in the past. Some people believe that they will be successful at securing Social Security Disability benefits if they only reapply after a denial, but in most cases, these applications will be denied all over again. You have a much greater chance of success if you appeal your denial within 60 days than if you simply wait and try to apply again.

Don’t miss out on the Social Security Disability support you deserve just because of a mistake or misunderstanding from the application process. If you cannot work because of a chronic condition, disease, illness, injury, or other disability, then fight for the benefits that you need. If you live in Texas and would like the support of a disability benefits attorney to help you with the appeals process, contact us today. With law offices in Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston, we are here to listen to your story and advocate for your rights.

by Paul B. Burkhalter
Managing Partner of Morgan & Weisbrod, Board Certified in Social Security Disability Law.

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