# Why was my SSDI denied?

About two-thirds of initial SSDI applications are denied. A denial is not the end — most approvals come after appeal, especially at the ALJ hearing level.

**Direct answer:** The most common reasons the SSA denies SSDI are insufficient medical evidence, earnings above the SGA limit, failure to follow prescribed treatment, lack of enough recent work credits, or a determination that the applicant can still perform some type of work.

## Common denial reasons
Insufficient medical evidence; earnings above [SGA](/answers/what-is-substantial-gainful-activity); not enough [work credits](/answers/how-many-work-credits-do-i-need-for-ssdi); failure to follow prescribed treatment; or SSA's conclusion that other work is possible.

   
## What should I do after a denial?
File a [Request for Reconsideration](/answers/how-do-i-appeal-an-ssdi-denial) within 60 days.

## Sources
- SSA — The Appeals Process — https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/appeal.html

## Related questions
- [How do I appeal an SSDI denial?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/how-do-i-appeal-an-ssdi-denial)
- [What happens at an SSDI hearing?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-happens-at-an-ssdi-hearing)
- [Do I need a lawyer for SSDI?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/do-i-need-a-lawyer-for-ssdi)
## Topics
- SSDI Appeals — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/appeals
- SSDI Application Process — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/application-process
- Substantial Gainful Activity — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-substantial-gainful-activity
- Work Credits — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/how-many-work-credits-do-i-need-for-ssdi

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Disclaimer: SSDI Direct Answers is a private informational website. It is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration or any government agency. Informational only — not legal, medical, or financial advice. For official information visit ssa.gov.