Reasons Disability Claims Are Denied: 5 Common Mistakes
Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be a lifeline when health problems stop you from working. Unfortunately, many deserving applicants face denials by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Often, claim denials are due to simple errors or oversights.
At Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the complex disability application process. Here are five common mistakes we see that lead to denied disability claims:
1. Insufficient Medical Evidence
The single most common reason for a denied Social Security Disability claim is inadequate medical evidence. Social Security needs comprehensive documentation that clearly shows how your condition prevents you from earning a living wage.
Many claimants underestimate the importance of regular medical care and detailed records. The SSA looks for:
- Consistent treatment history
- Clinical findings and test results
- Doctor’s notes about your limitations
- Records of medications and other treatments (including the results of each treatment)
- Side effects of medication
- Detailed history of symptoms
- Documentation of how your condition affects daily activities
If you have gaps in your treatment history or your medical records don’t clearly connect your condition to your inability to work, you’re likely to receive a denial.
How To Avoid This Mistake
See your doctors regularly, follow prescribed treatments, and ensure your medical providers document all your symptoms and limitations. Request copies of your medical records before applying for SSD to verify they accurately reflect your condition’s severity.
2. Continuing To Work (Above SGA Levels)
The SSA has a clear threshold for what constitutes Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). In 2025, the monthly SGA amount is $1,620 for non-blind individuals. If you can earn this amount even with your disability, you’re automatically considered not disabled, regardless of your medical condition. Many applicants continue working part-time or attempt a trial work period without understanding how this affects their eligibility.
How To Avoid This Mistake
Understand current SGA limits before applying for benefits. If you need to work while waiting for claim approval, your earnings must remain below SGA levels. Keep detailed records of any work accommodations or reduced hours related to your disability.
3. Failing To Follow Prescribed Medical Treatment
The SSA may deny your disability claim if you don’t follow the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor. Failure to follow prescribed treatment can significantly hurt your case because this implies you could potentially support yourself if you received proper medical care.
The SSA assumes that if you’re truly disabled, you would follow your doctor’s recommendations to improve your condition. When you don’t take prescribed medications, attend recommended therapy, or follow through with suggested procedures, they may question the severity of your condition.
How To Avoid This Mistake
Follow your treatment plan consistently and keep all medical appointments. If you have legitimate reasons why you cannot follow certain treatments (such as inability to afford treatment or severe side effects), document these reasons and discuss them with your medical provider.
4. Providing Inconsistent Information
During the application process, you’ll need to describe your condition and limitations multiple times— on forms, during medical visits, and possibly at a hearing. Inconsistencies in how you report your symptoms can raise red flags.
For example, if you claim you can’t stand for more than 15 minutes on your application but tell your doctor you can stand for an hour, this discrepancy can undermine your credibility.
How To Avoid This Mistake
Be truthful and consistent when describing your limitations. Keep a symptom journal to help you accurately report how your condition affects you day-to-day. Focus on your worst days, not just your average ones, when describing limitations.
5. Failing To Get Help From an Experienced Disability Attorney
Many applicants try to navigate the disability claims process alone. However, professional representation greatly increases approval chances.
Disability attorneys understand what evidence is most compelling and how to properly frame your limitations. They understand the SSA’s strict eligibility criteria, qualifying impairments, and can prepare you for questions that might arise during your case.
How To Avoid This Mistake
Consult with a disability attorney as early as possible. At Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, we help clients throughout Tennessee and North Carolina build strong cases from the start, ensuring all documentation is presented effectively. Our skilled SSD lawyers also know what disqualifies you from receiving disability and will evaluate your eligibility.
Contact Our Disability Law Firm
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with health challenges. Understanding these common mistakes is the first step toward improving your chances of claim approval.
Our experienced Social Security Disability attorneys in Tennessee know exactly what the SSA looks for when reviewing applications. We can help you avoid errors and build the strongest possible case for benefits.
If you’ve been denied SSD or are preparing to apply for the first time, contact us for a free consultation. We provide compassionate, professional legal guidance through every step of the disability claims process.
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