SSDI Denials See 13-Year High

Recent data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) show that applications for disability benefits are being denied at levels not seen in more than a decade. In 2023, the overall award rate, which is the share of applicants who ultimately receive benefits, fell to about 31% nationwide. This is a near-record low for the modern era. That means nearly 7 out of every 10 applicants are denied initially. This is a 13-year high, continuing a long trend of low approval rates for disability claims.

Experts point to several reasons for this sharp decline in approvals. The SSA uses strict medical criteria and detailed documentation requirements to determine eligibility, and many applications lack sufficient medical evidence showing how a condition prevents work. In addition, technical requirements such as work history credits and income limits can disqualify applicants before medical eligibility is even evaluated.

The process itself is also a significant barrier. The agency faces lengthy wait times that can exceed one year for initial decisions and appeals. This forces applicants and families into long periods without income while they wait. Many must navigate a multi-step appeals process, including reconsideration and potential hearings before an administrative law judge.

Why Denials Have Increased

• Strict eligibility standards: The SSA’s requirements for proving disability are complex. Applicants must submit detailed medical records demonstrating a condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months and that prevents all substantial gainful activity. If medical evidence is incomplete or unclear, applications are routinely rejected.
• Technical disqualifications: Claims can be denied for non-medical reasons as well, such as insufficient work credits or earning above the “substantial gainful activity” threshold at the time of application.
• Backlogs and staffing issues: The SSA has been under pressure from staffing reductions and high caseloads. This can slow processing and contribute to higher denial rates and delays in appeals decisions.

Impact on Americans

The rise in denial rates has serious consequences for individuals and families:

• Financial strain: For many Americans with disabling conditions, Social Security disability benefits provide essential income when work is no longer possible. Long waits and denials can leave people without any income for months, forcing them to drain savings, rely on family support, or fall into debt.
• Healthcare and basic needs insecurity: Without disability income, many applicants struggle to afford medications, ongoing treatments, housing, food, and utilities. Loss of financial stability can lead to worsened health outcomes.
• Mental health and stress: The uncertainty of repeated denials and extended appeals takes a psychological toll. Many applicants report anxiety, depression, and frustration as they navigate a process that can feel slow and adversarial.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

Getting the financial help you need to live life with a disability is not exactly easy. Filling out the application is just one step; getting approved is a whole different story.

Dealing with a claim denial can be tough. You may feel hopeless. A White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon can help your claim get approved and give you the hope you need to carry on. Fill out the online form or call (914) 228-1770 to schedule a consultation.

Source:

newsweek.com/social-security-disability-application-denials-reach-13-year-high-11246200