Most Social Security disability claims are denied for medical reasons; that is, the SSA did not find that the claimant’s condition was severe enough to keep them out of work. However, some applicants receive what’s known as a technical denial. Here, a claim is denied for non-medical reasons, and in most cases, it happens before the SSA even reviews the evidence. Read on for the most common technical denial reasons.
Earning Too Much
If you’re currently working and your earnings exceed the SGA (substantial gainful activity) limit, your application will be summarily denied. For 2019, the SGA limit is $1220, which applies to SSI and SSDI claims.
Insufficient Work History
Another common reason for an SSDI technical denial is that an applicant hasn’t worked long enough to be covered by Social Security disability. Work history requirements depend on age; for instance, a 50-year-old must have worked for at least seven years to receive disability benefits Libertyville.
No Recent Work
If you’ve been out of work for years, another reason for a technical denial is that your disability didn’t occur before your last insured date. SSDI lapses after a period if you’re not paying FICA taxes. Generally, you must work for at least five out of the last 10 years to qualify for benefits. However, if you can prove that your condition existed before your last insured date your appeal may be successful.
Filing an Appeal
While most technical denials can’t be appealed, an attorney may be able to help if the SSA made a mistake. A disability denial must be appealed within 60 days of the date of notice. Act quickly to secure your Social Security disability benefits in Libertyville by visiting us at RabinssLaw.com or calling Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, Ltd. to request a consultation.
