The sad reality is that many folks who find themselves applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for the first time will most likely face a denial. This can be largely frustrating and upsetting, especially when you are unable to work and earn a living wage thanks to your disability. Many clients ask, “Why do most people get denied for disability?” The team at Gade & Parekh, LLP, can review your case and determine your eligibility.
Reasons You Get Denied for Disability in California
In California, every application or claim for SSDI is different, yet there are several common reasons why the Social Security Administration (SSA) might deny you. It is also important to remember that just because a claim is initially denied by the SSA, this doesn’t mean that you don’t qualify. In most cases, you can file an appeal or request other actions to be taken to receive the benefits you deserve.
The unfortunate truth is that many SSDI claims, which are completely legitimate, will not be approved by the SSA. There can be many reasons for suffering a denial, including the following:
- Prior denials on record. Many folks seeking SSDI will make the mistake of trying to file a new application when their original one is denied instead of seeking an appeal. When this is the path taken, you will have multiple claims attached to your name, and this can increase your chances of suffering a denial of all your applications. Instead, allow an attorney to help you file an appeal when the initial claim is denied.
- Lack of medical record or evidence. When you are applying for SSDI, you will need to have strong evidence documenting your need for these benefits and how your medical condition keeps you from being able to work or have substantial gainful activity while at work. Several applications in California are tossed out because they lack the necessary medical documentation that they are actually suffering from a disability.
- Failure to seek or follow treatment. When you don’t seek medical attention or ignore the advice of your doctor regarding your treatment, you will most likely be denied. Likewise, if there are gaps or lapses in your medical care, you will also likely face a denial. The SSA will try to argue that it is impossible to determine if you are actually disabled if you are not receiving adequate treatment for the disability you are claiming.
- Earning too much. SSDI benefits are for those who cannot work due to a disability. If you are able to continue working and earn too large an income, this can make you ineligible to receive benefits through the SSA. In 2025, the limit is $1,620 a month. If you make more than this, your claim will be denied.
- Failing to cooperate. If you fail to cooperate with the SSA during your claims process, such as ignoring any requests to provide additional information, your claim will most likely be denied.
- Having a short-term disability or illness. SSDI is for those who are suffering from a long-term disability that keeps them from being able to work for at least one year, or 12 consecutive months. Conditions such as minor broken bones, muscle strains or sprains, colds, the flu, and other similar conditions will not count, and your application will be denied.
- Your disability is based on a substance abuse problem. If you have suffered a qualifying disability based solely on the fact that your impairment occurred due to a drug addiction or alcohol abuse, your claim will most likely be denied.
Things That Help Your Application Receive Approval
Thankfully, there are some things that can help you receive approval for SSDI. These can include:
- You have one or more notes from your doctors that support your claim.
- You are of a certain age.
- You have solid medical evidence to back up your claim, including medical imaging like MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, lab work, clinical notes, or other physical examinations.
- Your impairment is on the Compassionate Allowances List, which means your claims will likely be flagged and the process expedited so that you receive a decision in just a handful of weeks.
FAQs
Q: What Conditions Are on the Compassionate Allowances List?
A: There are several conditions on the Compassionate Allowances List that can allow an individual’s claim for SSDI benefits to be flagged and expedited for an overall quicker and smoother process. These conditions can include acute leukemia, adrenal cancer, being on a waitlist for an adult heart transplant, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, esophageal cancer, heart transplant graft failure, hepatoblastoma, kidney cancer, and ovarian cancer.
Q: How Can I Apply for SSDI Benefits in California?
A: To apply for SSDI benefits in California, you can either choose to apply online or in person at your local Social Security office. During the filing process, you retain the right to have an attorney represent you and guide you through every step so that everything is done correctly and on time. This can be critical when it comes to securing the benefits you deserve.
Q: Can Being Suspected of Fraud Hurt My SSDI Application?
A: Yes, the Social Security Administration can terminate your ability to receive benefits and charge you with fraud if you used dishonest means to obtain your disability benefits. This can include acquiring benefits on the part of another individual.
Q: What Should You Not Say When Applying for Disability?
A: There are several things you should avoid discussing when applying for disability. During your disability interview, do not lie about your symptoms, do not admit the fact that you are feeling better or are improving, do not admit to the fact that you can still work some kind of employment, do not admit to any kind of criminal history or substance abuse issue, and do not admit to not receiving or ignoring treatment from your doctor.
Let Gade & Parekh, LLP, Help You With Your Disability Claim Today!
If you are seeking benefits under California Social Security Disability Insurance, you need a trustworthy attorney by your side who can help ensure you have financial stability for the rest of your life. At Gade & Parekh, LLP, we have been standing alongside clients for over 29 years. Reach out to us today to schedule an initial consultation and learn more about our SSDI services.
