Something that is heard by attorneys and Social Security representatives continuously while assisting clients on Social Security disability claims is that clients have heard, or know someone, who was approved for Social Security disability right away, “so why was I denied?”
It is true that a minority of either Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claimants does get approved for disability benefits after filing the initial application, but this is a minority of claimants.
A majority of claimants are denied at the initial application process (approximately 75 percent) and must appeal that decision.
Unfortunately, the approval rate at the first appeal level, known as the Request for Reconsideration, is even lower (approximately 10 percent) than the initial application level. So, the belief that everyone, or most people are getting approved, while “I” get denied, just doesn’t ring true. If it were so easy to get approved for Social Security disability, there would be no need for Social Security disability attorneys or advocates.
Another common complaint is that a disability applicant knows someone who really “isn’t disabled,” or their disability is “not as severe as mine,” but they were approved.
When you are disabled and denied by the Social Security Administration it is understandable to be frustrated and even discouraged when someone you know has received benefits, but don’t assume you know all the circumstances related to that person’s disability or their disability case.
The fact remains that most of the people who continue along the disability process are in fact disabled, it just takes time for Social Security to realize this.
The most important message is to not get discouraged, seek assistance with your claim if you feel you can’t take on Social Security alone and have hope that brighter days are ahead.
