9 reasons why your SSD benefits claim was denied

On Behalf of | Feb 9, 2021 | Social Security Disability |

Your heart sank, your optimism shriveled and your confidence in your government is on a precipice. A notice of rejection, declaring that the Social Security Administration (SSA) denied your application to receive Social Security disability (SSD) benefits, has hit you hard. What will it take to convince the government that your medical condition prevents you from working perhaps for the rest of your life?

For now, try to set aside the emotions. And subscribe to the words of “pick yourself up, take a deep breath, dust yourself off and start all over again” from that old song “Start All Over Again.” You may be surprised to learn that two-thirds of all SSD benefits applications are initially denied by the SSA. It has almost become a rite of passage, and a ridiculous one at that. However, your chances of securing those funds are good once you appeal. But, still, like others in your shoes, you wonder what the reasons are for the government denying applications for SSD benefits.

Able to work different job, insufficient medical evidence

Longtime workers who dutifully contribute for decades to Social Security are among the people caught in the net of having their applications denied for SSD benefits. Such news comes as a surprise because their injury or medical ailment prevents them from working for at least a year or forever.

Medical denials for workers seeking SSD benefits have been on the decline since 2011 when nearly 837,000 had their applications rejected. In 2018, that number was nearly 500,000, a 40% drop from that peak year.

According to the SSA’s annual statistical report released in October of last year, here are the main reasons why the government denies applications for SSD benefits:

  • The person had the ability to perform and work a different job.
  • The applicant’s medical condition or injury was not severe.
  • The person had the ability to complete the tasks of his or her previous position.
  • The applicant would recover from the medical condition within a year.
  • The impairment had ties to alcoholism or drug addiction.
  • Insufficient medical evidence was provided.
  • The person failed to cooperate or failed to follow the necessary treatment
  • The worker chose not to continue with the claim.
  • The person returned to work before the SSA could establish the claim.

Many reasons exist for having SSD benefits denied. It happens to many workers. Just remember that filing an appeal immediately can help you secure those needed funds.