Why do most people get denied for disability?

Asked by: Manuela Torp DVM  |  Last update: April 18, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (57 votes)

The most common nonmedical reason for denying a claim is insufficient number of recent work credits.

Why is it so hard to get approved for disability?

There are a few reasons. SSDI/ SSI is not based on a diagnosis, but on how the disability impacts an individual. It takes a lot of documentation to prove how one is impacted. Incomplete documentation from the applicant or the care provider makes the process take longer.

What disqualifies you from getting disability?

These can include income levels, the severity and duration of your condition, and the degree you cooperate with medical professionals and the SSA. It is not an exhaustive list, however. Other disqualifiers can also include imprisonment and fraudulent activity.

What should you not say when applying for disability?

Ten Things You Should Never Say When Applying For Social Security Disability
  • “It's not that bad. ...
  • “I'm getting better.” ...
  • “I can work, but no one will hire me.” ...
  • “It hurts.” ...
  • “I'm not being treated.” or “I stopped treatment.” ...
  • “I have a history of drug use/criminal activity.” ...
  • “My relative gets disability.”

What disabilities are hard to prove?

Here are the Top Disabilities That Are Difficult To Prove
  • Mental Health Conditions.
  • Chronic Pain Disorders.
  • Fibromyalgia.
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
  • Autoimmune Disorders.

15 Most Common Reasons People Get Denied Disability

25 related questions found

What is the easiest disability to get approved for?

Do Any Conditions Automatically Qualify for Social Security Disability?
  • Musculoskeletal Disorders, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back pain.
  • Special Senses and Speech, such as blindness and hearing loss.
  • Respiratory Disorders, such as cystic fibrosis and respiratory failure.

What is the most overlooked disability?

Q: What Is the Most Commonly Overlooked Disability? A: Generally, the most overlooked disabilities are mental health disorders. These include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder, to name a few. They are often overlooked and misunderstood.

Does everyone get turned down the first time for disability?

Unfortunately, the majority of applications for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are denied. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the average acceptance rate of initial applications is 22 percent, and approximately 63 percent of SSDI applications are denied.

How to pass a disability interview?

Don't downplay your symptoms, but also avoid exaggeration. Providing accurate and detailed information will help the interviewer understand the full extent of your disability. Communicate Clearly – Speak clearly and concisely. If you're nervous, take a moment to collect your thoughts before responding.

What not to tell a disability doctor?

Exaggerate Your Symptoms or Disabilities

While you should always be open and honest about your condition, do not exaggerate or claim to have symptoms that you do not. The doctor will likely see through it, which could make them doubt other things you tell them, ultimately harming your claim.

What is the hardest state to get disability?

As of 2024, Utah is the hardest state to initially get approved for SSDI. It has an approval rating of 44.64% for first-time applicants. Who Is Eligible for Maximum Disability? A person who meets the SSA's work history and disability requirements is eligible for the maximum disability amount of $3,822 a month.

What automatically qualifies as disability?

The law says someone is disabled if both of these apply: they have a 'physical or mental impairment' the impairment 'has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities'

How much are most disability checks?

Social Security uses a formula to determine how much you should receive as your monthly SSDI benefit. SSDI payments range on average between is $1,300 and $1,600 per month.

What is automatically approved for disability?

There are no conditions that automatically qualify you for disability benefits (though some may qualify you for faster approval). However, the Social Security Administration (SSA)'s “Blue Book” lists conditions it will consider for review for people applying for disability benefits.

How many times can disability deny you?

However, if your claim comes back denied, your legal counsel prepares you for the appeals process. The answer to the question, “How many times can you get denied for disability?” is there is not a limit established by the SSA for the number of times an applicant can submit a disability claim.

How can I increase my chances of getting disability?

Seek Proper Medical Care

You substantially increase your chances of getting SSDI benefits when you get proper medical care. Ensure you complete the tests and keep the supporting documents. These records strengthen your case and maximize your chances of getting approved.

What not to say during a Social Security disability interview?

Don't talk about undiagnosed conditions

If you haven't been formally diagnosed with a condition by your doctor, don't mention it during your disability interview. It's best to answer questions only about the conditions listed on your initial disability application to avoid confusing the SSA.

What to say to get approved for disability?

Before your doctor's appointment, be clear about why you want disability benefits. Explain how your medical condition makes it hard for you to work and do daily tasks. Give specific examples, like times when you had trouble lifting or walking. Note any problems because of things like dust, heat, or cold.

How do I pass my disability exam?

Be Honest and Thorough: This exam is all about understanding the extent of your disability. Be open about your symptoms and how they affect your day-to-day life. Don't downplay your condition or symptoms out of fear of sounding overly dramatic. Conversely, avoid exaggerating your symptoms.

What illness automatically qualifies for disability?

Listing of impairments
  • Musculoskeletal system, such as amputation, chronic joint pain and spinal disorders.
  • Special senses and speech, such as impaired hearing, sight or speech.
  • Respiratory illnesses, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis.

At what age is it easiest to get disability?

A number of factors are considered when determining if someone is eligible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, but age often plays an important role. Generally, applicants over age 50 are more likely to be approved for SSDI benefits than younger individuals.

How do people survive waiting on disability?

Some people borrow from their 401(k) or another retirement plan to help cover bills until disability payments arrive. Others refinance homes, use credit cards, or borrow from friends or family. While these are all options, it's best to reserve them for last resorts.

What can get you 100% disability?

Temporary 100% disability benefits may be granted immediately if you have a service-connected illness or injury that is likely to change or hasn't been treated yet. In this case, you could qualify for a temporary VA disability rating of 100%.

What is the most feared disability?

Among all the disabilities/illnesses assessed, fear of blindness was the highest and that of deafness was the lowest. Even though the fear of blindness was the highest, it was not very different from all the other illnesses and disabilities except deafness and inability to speak.

Which conditions do not count as a disability?

If you struggle with the use of alcohol, nicotine or any other drug, you usually won't be considered disabled under the Equality Act.