Many people who apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits believe the process is straightforward: document your disability, submit your application, and receive the benefits you need. Unfortunately, the latest data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) tells a different story.
In this article, we’ll discuss the details surrounding how hard is it to get SSDI benefits and SSI benefits.
The Truth About Social Security Disability Denial Rates
Recent data from the Social Security Administration’s Fiscal Year 2024 Workload reveals just how challenging securing disability benefits can be. These statistics paint a sobering picture for applicants trying to navigate the system alone:
Data Source: Social Security Administration, Office of Decision Support and Strategic Information, FY 2024 Workload Data, January 30, 2025
Let’s break down what these numbers mean:
Initial Application Stage: The First Hurdle
At the initial application stage, a staggering 62% of all applications were denied. Out of more than 2 million claims filed, only 38% received approval in 2024.
This can mean that for every 10 people who apply, about 6 will receive a denial letter. These stats remain true regardless of the legitimacy of a person’s disability claim.
Reconsideration Stage: Tougher Odds
If you receive a denial and decide to file an appeal, the outlook becomes even more discouraging at the first stage. The reconsideration stage is the first step in the appeals process. At this point, 84% of cases in 2024 were denied, with only 16% receiving approval.
These Social Security Disability denial rates show that the reconsideration stage is often the most difficult part of the entire process, and the vast majority of applicants face another rejection.
Why Does This Happen?
Many qualified claimants are denied SSD not because they aren’t disabled, but because of issues with their application. Some examples include:
- Their medical documentation was incomplete or unclear
- They didn’t properly explain how their condition limits their ability to work
- They made technical errors in their application
- They didn’t understand the specific criteria the SSA uses to evaluate disabilities
- They missed important deadlines or failed to follow up appropriately
The Good News: Chances of Winning a Social Security Appeal Improve at the Hearing Level
The data shows an important turning point in the appeals process. At the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing level, approval rates jumped dramatically to 51%. This is the first stage where we see approvals outpace denials.
There are several reasons why we might see such a dramatic shift at the hearing level, such as:
- You have the opportunity to present your case in person before a judge
- You can provide verbal testimony about how your disability affects your daily life
- A judge can directly assess your credibility and physical limitations
- Medical expert testimony can be introduced
- Vocational experts can help explain your work limitations
Most importantly, this is where having experienced legal representation makes a crucial difference. The SSI and SSDI approval rates with lawyer representation are higher than they are for those who try to navigate hearings on their own.
How To Appeal a Disability Denial Successfully
If you’re wondering how to appeal disability denial effectively, the statistics speak for themselves. The hearing level— at which many applicants seek legal representation —is where approval rates more than triple compared to the reconsideration stage.
An experienced Social Security Disability attorney can:
- Ensure your application includes the right medical evidence
- Handle appeals if necessary
- Prepare you thoroughly for your hearing testimony
- Properly question medical and vocational experts
- Understand which particular aspects of your case to emphasize
- Navigate complex regulations and deadlines
What About Appeals Council & Federal Court Reviews?
Understanding your chances of winning disability in federal court is important if your case proceeds to higher levels of appeal. If a case is denied at the ALJ hearing level, the approval rates drop significantly.
Last year, at the Appeals Council stage, only 1% of claims were approved directly. The percentage remained the same for Federal Court decisions.
However, at the Federal Court level, 63% of cases were remanded. This means they were sent back to lower levels for reconsideration, which provides another chance for approval.
These advanced appeal stages are highly technical and procedural. It’s crucial to seek legal counsel before navigating a Social Security Disability appeal at the Council or Federal Court level.
Don’t Face The Odds Alone
The numbers don’t lie— securing disability benefits is an uphill battle, particularly without experienced legal help. Understanding how to appeal a denial of Social Security Disability properly can make all the difference.
Contact O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group today for a free consultation. Let us put our knowledge to work helping you navigate the complex disability application process. Working with an SSD attorney can greatly improve your chances of winning a Social Security appeal at every level.
At O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group, our disability lawyers have more than 29 years of experience. We understand what the SSA is looking for at each stage and know how to build the strongest possible case for benefits.
Unlike many firms, we:
- Take on challenging cases involving complex and multiple medical conditions
- Work with you from the initial application through all levels of appeal (if necessary)
- Make accommodations for clients with mobility and transportation issues
- Ensure you always speak directly with an attorney who knows your case
Call us today for a free consultation or contact us online! We serve clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
Call Us Today!