1. Lack of Sufficient Medical Evidence

One of the most frequent reasons for denial is failing to provide enough medical documentation. The Social Security Administration (SSA) must see clear, consistent medical evidence proving:

• The severity of your condition
• How your condition prevents you from working
• Ongoing treatment and diagnoses from licensed medical providers

If your records are incomplete, outdated, or inconsistent, your claim may be denied.

2. You Earn Too Much Income

If you're applying for SSDI, the SSA will evaluate whether you're engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). For 2025, earning more than $1,620/month (for non-blind applicants) from work may result in a denial because it shows you can still work.

For SSI, there are strict income and resource limits. If your income or assets exceed the threshold, you won’t qualify.

3. Your Condition Isn’t Considered Severe Enough

To be approved for disability benefits, your condition must:

• Be medically determinable
• Prevent you from working for at least 12 months
• Significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related tasks

If the SSA believes your condition isn’t severe or long-lasting enough, your application may be denied.

4. Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment

If you do not follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan without a valid reason, the SSA may assume your condition isn’t as limiting as you claim. This can hurt your credibility and lead to a denial.

5. Incomplete or Incorrect Application

Errors on your application—such as missing forms, leaving out work history, or providing inconsistent answers—can delay or derail your claim. The SSA needs a clear and complete picture of your situation to make a favorable decision.

6. Failure to Cooperate With the SSA

If you miss appointments, fail to provide requested documents, or don’t attend a required medical examination (called a consultative exam), your claim can be denied for noncompliance.