Receiving a denial for a Social Security Disability claim can be frustrating, especially when you are dealing with a serious injuries, call our Oklahoma City physical impairments disability lawyers. Many claims are denied due to insufficient medical evidence, failure to follow prescribed treatments, or technical errors in the application process. Understanding why these denials occur can help you take the right steps to strengthen your claim and improve your chances of approval.
Common Medical Reasons for Disability Claim Denials
If your disability claim for a physical impairment was denied, the medical evidence submitted may not have met Social Security Administration (SSA) requirements. SSA evaluates claims based on detailed medical documentation, including test results and physician assessments. Without sufficient proof of your condition and its impact on your ability to work, your claim may be rejected.
Insufficient Medical Evidence to Support the Claim
One of the most common reasons disability claims are denied is a lack of detailed medical records. SSA requires clear documentation proving the severity of your condition, including diagnostic test results, physician statements, and treatment history. If your records do not show consistent medical visits or objective evidence of your impairment, SSA may determine that your condition is not disabling.
Even if you have a severe medical condition, SSA will not approve your claim for Social Security disability benefits without the right documentation. The agency relies on comprehensive medical records to assess how your impairment affects your ability to work.
Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment Plans
If you did not follow your doctor’s recommended treatment plan, SSA may deny your claim. The agency expects claimants to take reasonable steps to improve their condition, including attending medical appointments, following therapy recommendations, and taking prescribed medications. If you do not comply with these treatments, SSA may assume that your condition is not as severe as claimed.
Technical and Administrative Errors That Lead to Denials
Even if your medical records are strong, technical errors in your application can result in a denial. Missing deadlines, submitting incomplete forms, or failing to provide necessary information can lead to unnecessary setbacks. Making sure your application is accurate and complete is critical to improving your chances of approval. Administrative mistakes that often result in denials include:
- Incomplete application forms – Missing information or failing to fill out all required sections can cause SSA to reject your claim.
- Missed filing deadlines – Disability claims must be submitted within SSA’s required time frame. Late applications are automatically denied unless you qualify for an extension based on special circumstances.
- Failure to provide work history details – SSA evaluates your ability to work based on your past employment. If you do not list your previous jobs and how your condition affects your ability to perform them, your claim may be denied.
- Lack of communication with SSA – If SSA requests additional information and you do not respond, your claim could be denied.
- Failure to attend medical evaluations – SSA may require you to attend a consultative examination with an independent doctor. If you miss the appointment or refuse the exam, SSA may determine that there is not enough medical evidence to support your claim.
How SSA Evaluates Work Ability in Disability Claims
SSA does not approve disability benefits solely based on a diagnosis. The agency evaluates how your condition affects your ability to work and whether you can adjust to other employment. Your claim must prove that your impairment prevents you from performing any substantial gainful activity.
SSA uses a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment to determine how much work you can still perform despite your condition. This evaluation considers physical limitations such as lifting, standing, and walking, as well as cognitive restrictions if your impairment affects mental function. If your RFC shows that you can still perform your past work or adjust to a new job, your claim may be denied.