Applying for disability benefits in the United States can feel like a full-time job with the endless paperwork, doctor visits, and waiting. Whether you’re applying for the first time or appealing a denial, understanding how the system works makes the process much less intimidating.
This resource breaks down the two main types of disability programs, what to do if your claim gets denied, and the most common reasons people are turned down.
What Is a Disability Claim?
A disability claim is a request for financial help from the government because a physical or mental condition prevents you from working. The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs two main programs for this: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
SSDI: For Those Who’ve Worked and Paid Into the System
If you’ve worked and paid Social Security taxes, SSDI is your path. It’s designed for people who’ve built up enough work credits through employment and now can’t work because of a medical condition that’s expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
What you get:
- A monthly benefit based on your past earnings.
- Medicare coverage after two years on SSDI.
- Learn more: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/amount
Who qualifies:
- You must have enough recent work history.
- You must be unable to do any type of substantial work (not just your old job).
- Example: Someone who worked full-time for several years and developed a chronic illness like multiple sclerosis or severe back problems may qualify for SSDI.
- Learn more: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/eligibility
SSI: For Those With Low Income or Limited Resources
SSI is meant for people who have little or no income and haven’t built up enough work history to qualify for SSDI. It’s for those who are disabled, blind, or age 65 and older.
What you get:
- A monthly payment set by the federal government, sometimes increased by your state.
- Automatic Medicaid coverage for healthcare.
- Learn more: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/amount
Who qualifies:
- Income below $2,019/month for individuals (as of 2025).
- Example: Someone who’s never worked full-time but lives with a serious mental health condition like bipolar disorder could qualify for SSI.
- Learn more: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/eligibility
Some states offer an extra payment called a “state supplement” to help with food and shelter costs. This type of payment won’t reduce your SSI. See which states offer supplements.
Why Disability Claims Get Denied
Unfortunately, the majority of first-time applications are denied, often for reasons that have nothing to do with whether you’re truly disabled. Here are the most common reasons:
- Lack of medical evidence: The SSA needs clear, consistent medical documentation showing how your condition limits your ability to work.
- Short-term disability: Your condition must last at least 12 months or be terminal. Temporary issues don’t qualify.
- Earning too much: If you’re earning above the “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) limit, your claim may be denied automatically.
- Not following medical treatment: If you skip doctor visits or refuse recommended care without good reason, the SSA may see it as noncompliance.
- Incomplete forms or missing information: Small paperwork errors or missing signatures can derail your claim.
- Failure to cooperate: Not responding to SSA requests or missing medical exams can result in denial.
- Previous denials without new evidence: Reapplying with the same information rarely works; you need fresh evidence or documentation.
- Lack of severity: Even if you have a medical diagnosis, SSA may decide your condition doesn’t significantly limit your ability to work.
If you’ve been denied, don’t panic — you’re far from alone. More than half of applicants eventually win on appeal, but it takes persistence. Here’s what to do next.
What to Do If Your Disability Claim Is Denied
Appeal Immediately
You have 60 days from the date of your denial letter to appeal. Never start over with a new application — that resets your timeline and can cost you months of potential back pay.
You may be able to get help from an attorney if your claim has been denied. Contact our sponsor Injury Claims right away and they may be able to assist you.
File for Reconsideration
Your claim will be reviewed by a new examiner. Use this time to add new evidence, such as updated doctor reports, test results, or letters from specialists describing your limitations in daily life.
Request a Hearing
If you’re denied again, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is your best chance to win — you can testify, bring witnesses, and present additional medical proof. Most people at this stage hire a disability lawyer or advocate, who only gets paid if you win (usually 25% of your back pay).
Appeal to the Council or Federal Court
If the judge denies your claim, you can take it to the SSA Appeals Council or even federal court. These higher levels review whether the SSA followed the law correctly in making its decision.
Checklist: How to Strengthen Your Appeal
- Keep all denial letters and paperwork.
- Gather updated medical evidence and treatment notes.
- Write a personal statement about how your condition affects your daily life.
- Ask your doctors to complete SSA forms or letters supporting your claim.
- Stay consistent with your medical care and medications.
- Hire a disability attorney or representative if possible.
Relief Recap
Disability benefits can be life-changing, but the process takes patience. The SSA isn’t trying to make life harder, it’s just very strict about documentation and definitions.
If your claim is denied, it doesn’t mean you’re not disabled — it just means the SSA doesn’t yet have enough evidence to prove it on paper. Stay persistent, appeal quickly, and keep building your case. Many people who stick with the process eventually get approved, and receive back pay for the months they were waiting.