There are several reasons the Social Security Administration (SSA) may deny a social security disability (SSD) claim.

1. Not Enough Medical Evidence

Oftentimes, SSD claims are denied because medical evidence is insufficient. Physician’s notes, records of continuous medical care, and test results are used to help claimants prove that their disability prevents them from working. Gaps in treatment, incomplete medical records, and missing information can be detrimental to a case.

2. Income Is Over the Limit

If a claimant’s income exceeds the SSA’s limit for substantial gainful activity, the administration will decide that the claimant is not disabled.

3. Disability Is Not Severe Enough

The SSA may deny a claim if a disability does not meet the criteria listed in the administration’s Blue Book.

4. Disability Isn’t Long-Lasting Enough

According to the SSA, the disability needs to have lasted at least 12 months or be fatal. The only disability that is an exception to this rule is blindness.

5. Lack of Cooperation

Claimants need to cooperate with the SSA if they want their claim to be approved. Unfortunately, many claimants don’t cooperate, failing to appear at SSA-scheduled exams or refusing the allow the SSA to access their medical records.

6. Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment

Denials are also frequently denied because the claimant fails to adhere to prescribed treatments, whether they don’t attend scheduled exams or take medications when instructed.

7. Previous Denial of Benefits

In some cases, applicants will file a new claim instead of appealing their denial. If no additional evidence is included in the new claim, the outcome will likely be another denial.

8. Underestimating the Disability’s Impact on Daily Life

If a disability doesn’t seem serious enough, the SSA may deny it. However, claimants may underestimate how their disability has affected their daily living when it’s actually serious enough to warrant approval.

9. Lack of Communication with SSA

The SSA may also deny claims if the claimant isn’t communicating with them. If a claimant moves or changes phone numbers, he or she will need to update contact information accordingly.

10. Neglecting to Appeal the Decision

Following an initial denial, claimants have the chance to appeal but many neglect to do so or fail to appeal by the deadline.