Not enough medical evidence
The record may not include current treatment, important testing, specialist records, or evidence describing function.
Denied SSDI or SSI
Read the notice, preserve the deadline, and determine why the claim was denied.
A denial letter is a procedural event, not a complete measure of whether a person is disabled. The next step should be based on the actual notice, the claim level, the medical and work evidence already in the file, and the deadline for appeal.
Immediate steps
- Keep the entire notice and envelope.
- Identify whether the denial is medical, technical, reconsideration, hearing, or Appeals Council action.
- Note the date on the notice and any stated deadline.
- Do not rely on a telephone call alone to perfect an appeal.
- Gather recent treatment information, medication changes, hospitalizations, work attempts, and provider contact information.
- Speak with the office before abandoning the claim or filing a replacement application.
Common reasons a claim may be denied.
SSA believes other work is possible
The decision may rely on an assessment that the claimant can adjust to other jobs despite being unable to perform past work.
Insured status problem
The decision may conclude that disability was not established before the date last insured.
Work activity
Earnings or self-employment may raise a substantial-gainful-activity issue.
Duration
SSA may conclude the condition did not last or was not expected to last for the required period.
Failure to cooperate or attend
Missed forms, examinations, calls, or appointments can produce adverse action even when impairments are serious.
Appeal instead of simply starting over.
A new application does not automatically preserve the earlier filing date or the same potential past-due benefits. A timely appeal usually allows the existing claim to continue through reconsideration and hearing. The correct action can vary with prior applications, reopening questions, age changes, new impairments, and the type of denial.
Official sources and further reading
Links open official government resources. This page provides general information and is not a substitute for advice about an individual claim.
When winning means everything
Talk with an Atlanta Social Security disability lawyer.
Call about an application, denial, appeal, hearing, or deadline. Do not send a Social Security number through the website form.
