When you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the process can seem confusing. If you are already dealing with a medical condition, it can further add to the stress. As such, understanding the common reasons the agency rejects claims can help you avoid mistakes.
Your medical evidence may not tell the full story
To secure an approval, it is not enough to simply show you have a medical diagnosis. You must prove that your condition prevents you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), which generally refers to working and earning more than the federal monthly threshold (e.g., $1,690 for non-blind applicants in 2026).
In California, the Disability Determination Service Division (DDSD) reviews initial claims on behalf of the Social Security Administration (SSA). They review treatment records, test results and clear statements from your doctors that explain how your symptoms affect your ability to work.
If your medical records are incomplete, outdated or lack specific details about your health condition, the DDSD may not have enough information to approve your claim.
Your application may contain critical errors
Small and technical mistakes on your SSDI application can cause delays or lead to a denial. Common errors include:
- Submitting incomplete forms or leaving sections blank
- Providing incorrect personal information, such as a name that does not match your Social Security number
- Failing to list every medical provider who treated your condition
- Describing your work history without clear details about your job duties
Beyond the application itself, you must also respond to all requests from the DDSD. The agency often asks for clarification or additional records to finish reviewing your claim. If you miss deadlines or fail to respond, the DDSD might make a decision based only on the incomplete evidence on file, which usually results in a denial.
What your next steps could look like
If your SSDI claim has been denied, it is important to know that you are not alone. Many applicants face initial rejections and go on to receive benefits through the appeals process.
You generally have 60 days from the date you receive your denial notice to request reconsideration. During this time, you may want to gather additional medical evidence, correct any errors in your original application or consult with a lawyer to provide further guidance.
The appeals process offers multiple levels of review, including reconsideration by a different examiner, a hearing before an administrative law judge and further appeals if necessary.
