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 It's hard to get SSDI because the Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict rules, requiring strong medical proof you can't work, not just a diagnosis, with low initial approval rates (around 30%) due to insufficient evidence, incomplete applications, failing to follow treatment, or not meeting technical work credit rules, compounded by an under-resourced SSA system causing delays and potential errors. 

Key reasons for difficulty:
  • Strict Definition of Disability:
    It's not just about having a condition; you must prove it prevents you from doing any substantial work for at least a year or leads to death, requiring extensive documentation on how it limits you.  Disability claims are hard to prove.
     
    Social Security disability (SSDI) claims are often denied due to:

  • Insufficient Medical Evidence:
    Many claims fail because the medical file is too thin, lacks detailed records, or doesn't link the condition to work (functional) limitations. 
     
  • Technical/Non-Medical Denials:
    You might not have enough recent work credits, or if working, your earnings might be too high (over the Substantial Gainful Activity limit ($1,670 per month for 2025; $1,690 for 2026). This applies only to wages or earned income.
     
  • Applicant Non-Compliance:
    Failing to follow doctor's orders, attend exams, or provide requested info to the SSA leads to denial. 

  • Subjective Symptoms:
    Conditions with fluctuating or subjective symptoms (like pain, fatigue or depression) are harder to prove than objective, measurable ones.
     
  • Systemic Issues:
    The SSA is underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times, potential errors, and difficulty reaching caseworkers, creating frustrating delays.  An SSDI claim takes months to process.

  • Application Errors:
    Incomplete forms, vague descriptions, or inconsistent information can sink a claim. 
     
    The Forsythe Firm in Huntsville has handled Social Security disability claims for over 20 years and knows the ins-and-outs of the system.  Our clients have an advantage of attorneys/advocates who know how to gather and present medical evidence, explain the case to authorities and line up the evidence to meet Social Security's rules and regulations.
     
    The  Forsythe will never charge you a fee until AFTER you have won your claim and received past due benefits.  Consultations are free and we will never ask you money.  We are paid only for success!

    CALL (256) 799-0297    FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

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