Why Do So Many SSD Claims Get Denied the First Time?

A close-up of a Social Security Disability Claim form being filled out, with a hand holding a pen and a computer keyboard visible in the background.

You’ve worked hard your whole life, paid your taxes, and played by the rules. Then, you suffer a serious injury or illness. Suddenly, you can’t work anymore. So, you apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, which is a safety net you’ve earned. Then the letter comes: denied.

This is a frustrating and confusing situation. You did everything right. So, why were you turned down? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Most people in New York get denied the first time they apply for SSD. But a denial doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t qualify. It just means the system is hard to navigate, and it’s not built with you in mind.

How does the SSD application process work in New York?

When you apply for disability benefits in New York, you’re actually dealing with both the Social Security Administration (SSA) and a state agency called Disability Determination Services (DDS). You can file online, by phone, or in person. Once your application is received, DDS reviews your medical records, work history, and other paperwork. They might even schedule a doctor’s exam for you.

This whole process usually takes a few months. However, it can drag on longer if there are delays, missing documents, or backlogs at the local office (which is common in New York).

What percentage of SSD claims are denied?

Around 65 to 70 percent of first-time SSD applications get denied across the country. New York is no exception, and in some years, the denial rate here has been even higher. That means most people hear “no” before they ever hear “yes.”

However, that initial denial doesn’t mean your claim is over. Many applicants win their benefits later through appeals, especially once they get help gathering evidence or working with someone who understands the system.

What are the most common reasons for SSD denial?

There are lots of ways an SSD claim can go sideways. Here are the most common pitfalls:

  • You didn’t provide enough medical evidence: The SSA needs more than just a diagnosis; they want to see how your condition affects your daily life. Can you sit, stand, lift, concentrate, follow instructions? If your records don’t paint that full picture, your claim might be denied.
  • You’re still working and earning too much: If you earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, SSA considers you capable of working, even if your job is hanging on by a thread. In 2025, the SGA is $2,700 for blind individuals and $1,620 for non-blind individuals.
  • You didn’t follow your treatment plan: Maybe you didn’t go to physical therapy. Or you skipped appointments. If SSA sees that you’re not following medical advice, they might assume your condition isn’t that serious—even if that’s not true.
  • Your condition isn’t expected to last long enough: To qualify, your condition must last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death. Short-term disabilities don’t qualify, no matter how painful they are.
  • Your application had mistakes or missing info: It’s easy to make errors on the forms. Missing dates, incomplete job history, or forgetting to sign medical release forms can all lead to denials.
  • You didn’t respond to SSA’s requests: If you miss a phone call, skip a medical exam, or ignore a letter, SSA can deny your claim for “failure to cooperate.” It doesn’t always seem fair, but that’s how the system works.

Are there extra challenges to applying for SSD in New York?

New York has some unique roadblocks when it comes to applying for SSD. For example, New York, Buffalo, and other cities face backlogs at SSA offices due to the high volume of claims, which leads to delays and longer wait times for decisions.

On top of that, the state’s high cost of living forces many applicants to take on part-time work just to get by. Unfortunately, this can push their earnings above the SGA limit, which puts their eligibility for benefits at risk.

Additionally, many people in New York face limited access to consistent medical care. Without health insurance or the ability to see a doctor regularly, providing the thorough medical documentation SSA expects becomes harder.

How can you improve your chances of getting SSD in New York?

There are steps you can take to give your claim a better chance of approval, including:

  • Getting consistent medical treatment
  • Asking your doctor to describe your limitations
  • Staying under the SGA limit if you must work
  • Working with an experienced New York SSD lawyer.
  • Documenting your symptoms and the impact your injury has on your life.

What happens if my SSD claim is denied?

Again, an SSD claim denial isn’t necessarily the end; it’s just the beginning of the next phase. You have 60 days to appeal the denial. This starts with a Request for Reconsideration. If that’s denied (and many are), you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. This is where you can win, especially with a lawyer by your side.

Our New York SSD attorneys can help you get the benefits you deserve

If you’re struggling to get approved for SSD benefits or dealing with a frustrating denial, it’s time to talk to someone who truly understands the system. The New York SSD attorneys at Pasternack, Tilker, Ziegler, Walsh, Stanton & Romano LLP have been standing up for injured and disabled workers for decades.

We know how confusing and frustrating the process can be, and we’re here to help you through every step. When you work with our legal team, you get more than just paperwork help. You get a dedicated lawyer who knows the ins and outs of New York’s SSD system, including how to avoid common application mistakes that lead to delays and denials.

If your SSD application has been denied, or you need help getting started with a claim, contact us today to schedule your free consultation. There are no obligations, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“I had to use them on 4 different occasions (cases), and they never disappointed me. Very professional and reliable. Highly recommend.” – M.T., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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