Garland SSDI Lawyers – Common SSDI Denial Reasons and How to Avoid Them

In Garland, Texas, many residents rely on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) when a serious illness or injury keeps them from working. But even if you genuinely qualify, there’s a high chance your first application will be denied.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies over half of all initial SSDI applications—not always because someone is ineligible, but because the application wasn’t strong enough. Knowing the most common reasons SSDI claims are denied can help you avoid costly mistakes and improve your chances of approval.

The 7 Most Common SSDI Denial Reasons

1. Insufficient Medical Evidence

• SSA needs proof that your condition seriously limits your ability to work. If your medical records don’t explain the severity—or if they’re missing altogether—your claim may be denied.

✅ Tip: Ask your doctor for detailed documentation, not just diagnoses.

2. Earning Over the SGA Limit

• To qualify for SSDI, you must be unable to engage in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). In 2025, that means earning over $1,550/month for non-blind individuals can disqualify you.

3. Short-Term Conditions

• SSDI is only for disabilities expected to last at least 12 months or lead to death. If the SSA believes your condition is temporary, they’ll deny your claim.

🔗 Understand eligibility basics here

4. Not Following Treatment

• If you’re not attending appointments, taking prescribed medication, or following through with recommended therapies, SSA may assume you’re not doing your part to improve.

5. Incomplete or Inaccurate Paperwork

• SSDI applications are long and complex. Leaving out information, forgetting signatures, or missing deadlines will almost always lead to a denial.

✅ Tip: Review your forms multiple times or get professional help before submitting.

6. Not Enough Work Credits

• To receive SSDI, you must have paid into Social Security and earned enough work credits. This is based on your age and work history.

🔗 Check your eligibility with the SSA Work Credit Calculator

7. Condition Doesn’t Meet SSA Criteria

• The SSA uses a guide called the Blue Book to evaluate disability claims. If your condition isn’t listed or your symptoms don’t match their criteria, your application could be denied.

🔗 SSA Blue Book: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/

3. What These Denials Mean for Your Future

A denial doesn’t always mean you’re ineligible. Many claims are denied due to technical errors, poor documentation, or misunderstood medical conditions.

What matters most is how you respond to a denial. Knowing what went wrong is the first step to getting it right.

🔗 See our guide on how to respond to SSDI denials

When to Involve a Garland SSDI Lawyer

A local SSDI lawyer understands how the SSA evaluates claims and how to fix the mistakes that lead to denials. They also know the regional hearing offices and judges, which is a big help when appealing.

A Garland SSDI Lawyer Can:

• Identify exactly why your claim was denied

• Gather and submit the right medical evidence

• Handle appeal forms and deadlines

• Represent you in a disability hearing

✅ No upfront costs: Most SSDI lawyers work on contingency—you only pay if you win.

Why Louis Law Group Is Trusted in Garland

At Louis Law Group, we’ve helped many clients in Garland and surrounding areas turn denied SSDI claims into successful outcomes. We know how to spot weak points in your application and build a case that meets SSA standards.

Our Promise:

• Free consultations to review your denial

• Clear communication—no confusing legal talk

• Comprehensive appeals support, from reconsideration to hearings

🔗 Learn more about our SSDI legal services

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I appeal or reapply after a denial? A: Appeal. Reapplying can lead to another denial and delay your case.

Q: How long do I have to file an appeal? A: You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter.

Q: Can a lawyer increase my chances of approval? A: Yes. Studies show applicants with legal representation are more likely to win SSDI benefits—especially during appeals.

Q: Will my SSDI lawyer contact my doctors? A: Yes. Lawyers can help collect the right records and request statements explaining your disability in legal terms the SSA understands.

Q: Is there a local SSA office in Garland? A: No, but nearby offices in Dallas or Mesquite typically serve Garland residents.

Conclusion

If your SSDI application was denied in Garland, don’t assume it’s over. Most rejections are due to fixable issues—missing evidence, unclear diagnoses, or overlooked paperwork. By understanding the most common denial reasons, you can avoid repeat mistakes and get your claim back on track.

Louis Law Group is here to guide Garland residents through every step of the SSDI process. Whether you’re applying for the first time or appealing a denial, we’ll help you build a stronger, clearer case.

Have you reviewed your SSDI denial to understand what went wrong—and what to do next?