How to Read Your SSDI Denial Letter: What Each Section Means
TL;DR: Your denial letter (Notice of Disapproved Claim) tells you the type of denial (technical vs medical), the specific reason, your appeal deadline (60 days from receipt), and your appeal options. The key section is the "determination" paragraph that states why you were denied. Look for language about "other work," "past work," "not severe enough," or "not insured." Understanding the specific denial reason tells you exactly what to address in your appeal.
Key Sections of the Denial Letter
The Determination
This paragraph states the SSA's conclusion. Common language:
- "You are not insured for disability benefits" = Technical denial (not enough work credits)
- "Your condition is not severe enough" = Denied at Step 2
- "You can still do the type of work you have done in the past" = Denied at Step 4
- "Although your condition prevents you from doing your past work, you can do other work" = Denied at Step 5
- "Your condition is expected to improve" = Doesn't meet 12-month duration
The Medical Evidence Summary
Lists what evidence the SSA reviewed. Check whether all your providers and records are listed. Missing records could be the reason for denial.
Your Appeal Rights
States your 60-day appeal deadline (counted from 5 days after the letter date, to account for mailing). Missing this deadline means starting over.
What to Do Next
- Note the exact denial reason
- Check the medical evidence they reviewed (anything missing?)
- Mark the 60-day appeal deadline on your calendar
- Request your file (you have the right to see everything the SSA considered)
- Get new/updated medical evidence that addresses the denial reason
- File your appeal (reconsideration) within 60 days
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Frequently Asked Questions
How to Read Your SSDI Denial Letter: What Each Section Means?
TL;DR: Your denial letter (Notice of Disapproved Claim) tells you the type of denial (technical vs medical), the specific reason, your appeal deadline (60 days from receipt), and your appeal options. The key section is the "determination" paragraph that states why you were denied. Look for language about "other work," "past work," "not severe enough," or "not insured." Understanding the specific denial reason tells you exactly what to address in your appeal.
What should I know about key sections of the denial letter?
This paragraph states the SSA's conclusion. Common language:
What to Do Next?
ClaimPath helps you build a stronger application from the start. $79, one time.