Why Was My SSA Application Denied—and What Can I Do Now?
- Purple
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Top reasons for SSI and SSDI denials, and how to appeal or reapply
Introduction: Got Denied? You’re Not Alone.
If you recently applied for SSI or SSDI and got a denial letter, you might be feeling frustrated, confused—or even scared.
📄 “Why did SSA deny my application?”
📅 “Do I have to start over?”
📝 “Can I appeal—and how long will it take?”
The short answer:
✅ Most disability applications are denied at first—but many are approved on appeal.
⚠️ It’s not the end of the road—but you need to act quickly.
This post explains:
✅ The most common reasons SSA denies disability applications
✅ What steps to take next
✅ What deadlines you need to know
✅ How Purple can help you stay organized during the appeal process
1. Why Do Most Disability Applications Get Denied?
SSA denies over 60% of initial disability applications—even for people who are fully eligible.
Here are the most common reasons:
❌ Not Enough Medical Evidence
SSA needs to see clear proof that your condition:
Is severe enough to prevent work
Will last at least 12 months (or is terminal)
Is supported by medical records and evaluations
❌ You’re Working or Earning Too Much
If you’re earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit—$1,620/month in 2025 (non-blind)—SSA may assume you're not disabled.
❌ You Didn’t Respond to SSA Requests
SSA may have mailed you:
Medical release forms
Appointment requests
Additional paperwork
If you missed a deadline, SSA may have denied your claim by default.
❌ Your Assets or Income Exceed the SSI Limit
If you’re applying for SSI, you must:
Have less than $2,000 in resources ($3,000 for couples)
Stay under strict income limits
Even small deposits or help from family can trigger a denial if not explained properly.
❌ SSA Says You Can Do “Other Work”
Sometimes SSA agrees you can’t do your old job, but claims you could do another job. This often leads to denials based on age, education, or skills.
2. What to Do If You’re Denied
✅ Step 1: Read the Denial Letter Carefully
It should explain:
The exact reason for denial
What evidence was missing or insufficient
Your deadline to appeal (usually 60 days)
✅ Step 2: File a Reconsideration
This is the first level of appeal—you don’t need to start over.
You’ll submit:
New or updated medical records
Doctor statements or test results
A signed appeal form (SSA-561)
📌 File your appeal online at ssa.gov/benefits/disability/appeal
✅ Step 3: Consider Legal Help
A disability attorney or advocate can:
Review your file
Gather stronger evidence
Represent you in front of a judge (if needed)
💡 Most work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if you win.
✅ Step 4: Stay Organized and Follow Up
SSA may schedule medical exams or request more documents.Keep a log of:
Calls and letters
Appointments
Deadlines
3. What If You Miss the Appeal Deadline?
If 60+ days have passed since your denial:
You may need to start a new application, OR
Request a late appeal, if you have “good cause” (e.g., illness, hospitalization, lost mail)
📌 SSA won’t accept late appeals without a clear reason.
4. How Purple Helps You Through the Process
💜 Document Storage
Upload your denial letter, appeal forms, and SSA communication in one secure place
💜 Smart Reminders
Set alerts for deadlines, appointments, and medical exams
💜 Track Deposits & Income
Make sure you stay under SSI limits while your appeal is pending
💜 Companion AI Support
Ask:
“What does this SSA letter mean?”
“What should I do after a denial?”
“Can I get help filing an appeal?”
FAQs About SSA Denials
⚠️ How long does it take to get approved after an appeal?
It varies—a few months to over a year, depending on your state and appeal level.
⚠️ Can I keep benefits while appealing?
If your case involves an overpayment or termination, you may be able to continue receiving benefits while appealing—but you must request it.
⚠️ Should I reapply instead of appealing?
SSA recommends appealing—not reapplying—unless you missed the deadline. Reapplying starts the process over from scratch.
⚠️ What if I’ve already been denied twice?
You still have options—appeal to an Administrative Law Judge or request a federal review.
Conclusion: A Denial Isn’t the End—It’s the Start of the Appeal Process
✅ Most disability claims are denied at first—but many are approved on appeal
✅ Act fast and respond within 60 days
✅ Keep your records organized and updated
✅ Use Purple to manage deadlines, documents, and income as you navigate the process
💜 Sign up for Purple and get the tools you need to stay in control of your SSA journey—even after a setback.