Why do I keep getting denied for disability?   I will list a page that addresses this question, but I will go ahead and state that it always comes down to the strength of the medical evidence. The medical evidence must show that a person's case meets the SSA defined definition of disability. Meaning that they must have enough limitations such that they cannot do their past work or any other type of work at a level that earns them a substantial and gainful income. However, some individuals who get denied repeatedly simply do not follow the appeal process and that lowers their chances of approval. These are the individuals who keep filing new claims instead of appeals. Also, individuals who go to hearings by themselves, without a lawyer or a disability representative, also weaken their chances of being approved. That is because at a hearing no one will give a claimant a crash course on how to properly prepare for a hearing or represent their claim, or on how to understand the basics of how disability claim decisions are made, or even understand the concepts and terms. Representation at a hearing is especially important when a vocational expert is present since the VE offering testimony should be cross-examined. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: What happens if you get denied for Social Security Disability three times? If I Get Denied Twice For SSD or SSI Disability, What Do I Do? How Many Times Will Social Security Deny You before You Get Approved for Disability? Disability requirements and how to file in South Carolina Does Social Security turn down every disability case the first time? Will Social Security Deny You Disability Without Looking At Your Medical Records? Denied For Social Security Disability Because they say I can work What happens if my SSI or Social Security Disability Application is denied? Medical conditions for which you can file and apply for disability Why do I keep getting denied for disability? Disability claim at reconsideration appeal level If approved at a disability hearing, when do you get a letter or check? How long will it take to get a decision on SSD or SSI after a medical examination?