What are common reasons Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims are denied?

Insufficient medical evidence of severity Earnings above substantial gainful activity (SGA) Failure to follow prescribed treatment without good reason Condition not expected to last 12 months

All pathways

United States · education only

Government

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Federal benefit for people who have worked long enough and recently enough, and whose medical condition prevents substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months.

Typical timeline: Initial decision typically takes 6–8 months; reconsideration and hearing levels can add a year or more.

This page is a dedicated, search-friendly version of the same checklist on the main disability benefits guide. Progress checkboxes sync via your browser on this device only.

Claim checklist & evidence

Forms

SSA-16 — Application for Disability Insurance Benefits link
SSA-3368 — Adult Disability Report

Step-by-step

1. Check work-credit eligibility
Most adults need 40 credits, 20 earned in the last 10 years. Younger workers need fewer.
Next: Sign in to ssa.gov and view your earnings record.
2. File the application online
Apply at ssa.gov/apply or by phone. Complete the Adult Disability Report in the same session.
Next: Save your re-entry number in case you need to pause.
3. Send medical evidence
List every provider with dates and contact info; SSA can request records but it is faster if you submit them.
Next: Ask your hand surgeon and OT for a functional capacity letter.
4. If denied, request reconsideration within 60 days
Most initial claims are denied. The next levels are reconsideration, ALJ hearing, Appeals Council.
Next: Consider a disability representative — they are paid only if you win.

Evidence to gather

Check off items as you collect them — progress is saved only on this device (same keys as the main benefits guide).

Complete medical records (last 12 months) — SSA needs objective findings — imaging, surgical notes, therapy records.
Function report describing daily activities — Shows how hand limitations affect cooking, dressing, typing, lifting, etc.
15-year work history with job duties — Used to evaluate if you can return to past relevant work.

Common reasons claims get denied

Insufficient medical evidence of severity
Earnings above substantial gainful activity (SGA)
Failure to follow prescribed treatment without good reason
Condition not expected to last 12 months

Sources

SSA — Disability Benefits · accessed 2026-04-22