If your initial SSDI claim was denied, do not assume you cannot get benefits. The truth is that the SSA denies the majority of initial claims, which tragically compels some disabled individuals to give up entirely. Do not back down: Many denied claims are ultimately approved after going through the appeals process.

Some of the most common reasons SSDI claims are denied include:

• Insufficient medical evidence. The SSA demands an exhaustive level of evidence documenting the scope and severity of your disability and how it prevents you from working. 
• Failure to follow treatment advice. If there are gaps in treatment or evidence that you did not follow your doctor’s prescribed treatments, the SSA may argue you are simply not seeking appropriate treatment and are thus not disabled.
• Failure to respond to requests for information. As part of the claims process, the SSA may formally ask for additional information before making a decision. If you do not respond to these requests or do not provide precisely what they are asking for, your claim will likely be denied. 

Even if you seem to do everything right, the SSA may still deny your claim. We can help set you up for success if you have yet to file your initial claim. If your claim is denied, we can provide guidance and advocacy throughout the appeals process, which includes representing you at your hearing.