Social Security Disability can provide much-needed payments to individuals who are unable to work due to a severe medical condition. However, securing benefits is a complex and challenging process, and many initial claims result in a denial. 

If you are seeking Social Security Disability and need assistance, a disability appeals lawyer with Disability Advocates Group can fight for you. We can guide you through every stage of your appeal, working tirelessly to bolster your claim. We serve clients in Los Angeles and throughout California. Contact us online or call today to learn more during a free consultation. 

Are You Eligible for Social Security Disability? 

Social Security Disability (SSD) is the broad term for two distinct benefit programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). SSD includes:

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) – SSDI is available to disabled workers who are “insured” through contributions to the Social Security fund via their payroll taxes. Eligibility for SSDI depends on your earned work credits. You can earn up to four credits per year, and typically need 40 to qualify, although younger workers may require fewer. You must also have a disabling medical condition as defined by the SSA. 
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – SSI is available to individuals with disabilities and those aged 65 and older who have limited income and resources. You do not need work credits to qualify, but you must meet SSA guidelines regarding your wages and assets. You must also have a disabling medical condition if you are under age 65. 

According to the Social Security Administration, you are medically eligible for disability benefits if:

  • You have a medical condition included in the SAA Blue Book or a condition not listed that is of equal severity. 
  • Your condition has lasted or is expected to last 12 months or longer, or result in death.
  • Your condition prevents you from performing work that is substantial gainful activity (SGA) (i.e., earns more than $1,620 monthly in 2025).

Why Was Your Social Security Disability Claim Denied? 

To prove your eligibility for SSDI or SSI (which some applicants can qualify for concurrently), you must submit an application for each program individually and supply the SSA with extensive information regarding your work history, income, assets, and medical history. It is easy to make a mistake that could lead to a denial. In fact, SSA Research, Statistics & Policy Analysis reports that the average rate for denied disability claims is 67 percent. 

Common reasons for denial include:

  • The SSA believes you make too much money to qualify. 
  • The SSA does not believe your condition is severe enough or will last long enough to qualify.
  • Your claim lacked sufficient medical evidence. 
  • You refused to comply with your doctor’s treatment orders.
  • You refuse to undergo an Independent Medical Examination (IME) at the SSA’s request.
  • The SSA believes your medical condition is related to alcohol or drug abuse.
  • You submitted an incomplete or incorrect application.

How to Appeal a Social Security Disability Denial

If your initial application for SSD benefits was denied, do not reapply. Instead, you can and should appeal the determination. Our Los Angeles disability appeals lawyer can help you navigate the process, which may include the following stages:

  1. Request for reconsideration – We can request a reconsideration of the SSA’s initial determination for medical or non-medical reasons. At this stage of the appeals process, you can introduce new information. Our lawyers can help you bolster your claim with additional documentation, including medical and wage records. 
  2. Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing – If the request for reconsideration is unsuccessful, we can ask for a hearing before an ALJ, either online or in person. This hearing is a formal court proceeding, during which we can represent you, present old and new evidence, and even call witnesses for questioning, such as your healthcare providers. 
  3. Appeals Council review – We can ask for an Appeals Council review if the ALJ rules against you and you believe the ruling was in error. You usually cannot introduce new evidence at this stage unless it relates to a new or worsening medical condition. The Appeals Council has the authority to issue a new judgment in your case or to order a new ALJ hearing. 
  4. Federal court – If the Appeals Council upholds the ALJ ruling, we can file a civil action in U.S. District Court. 

There are time limits for appeals, so do not delay. You have 60 days from receiving the SSA’s initial determination to request a reconsideration. We then have 60 days between each stage of the appeal to advance your claim if necessary. 

Do You Need a Social Security Disability Lawyer? 

There are many ways working with our firm’s Social Security Disability attorneys can benefit you, especially if you must go through an appeal. If you have not yet submitted your initial application, we can assist with this process, as well. 

Our lawyers can:

  • Help you obtain and submit necessary information regarding your work history and income, including tax forms, payroll stubs, and banking information.
  • Help you obtain and submit medical evidence and medical records.
  • Review your initial application to ensure there are no errors or omissions.
  • Review denial notices and file for reconsideration before time runs out.
  • Advance your appeal through the necessary stages, including representing you during an ALJ hearing.

Contact Disability Advocates Group About Your Disability Appeals

We understand how stressful and frustrating the process of seeking Social Security Disability can be. We also know how essential securing these benefits is to our clients’ well-being. At Disability Advocates Group, we are here to help you navigate the application and appeals processes so you can focus on what is most important – your health. 

Our disability appeals lawyers can work to strengthen your claim and fight for a successful determination. Throughout your case, we will be by your side to answer your questions, address your concerns, and serve you with compassion and respect. To learn more, contact us online or call our office for a free consultation.