Denied Social Security Disability? Here’s What to Do Next in 2025

Anthony Tanoos • July 9, 2025

Don’t Panic — Most SSDI Claims Are Denied at First

A woman in a wheelchair is petting a cat in a kitchen.

If you’ve been denied Social Security Disability benefits, you’re not alone. In fact, over 60% of initial SSDI and SSI applications are denied every year — even when the applicant is truly disabled.

The good news? Many people go on to win their case on appeal, especially when they have the right legal help.


Why Was Your Disability Claim Denied?

Common reasons for denial include:

❌ Lack of medical evidence
❌ Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork
❌ Earning too much income while applying
❌ The SSA believes you can still do “light work”
❌ You didn’t follow up with treatment or appointments

At Crossroads Disability, we can request your records, fix what was missing, and file your appeal the right way — before time runs out.

You Only Have 60 Days to File an Appeal

After an SSDI or SSI denial, the SSA gives you 60 days from the date on your denial letter to take action.

There are 4 levels of appeal:

  1. Reconsideration
  2. Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
  3. Appeals Council Review
  4. Federal District Court appeal

We help with every stage — from reconsideration to federal appeals — and we only get paid if you win.


What You Should Do After a Denial

Here’s what we recommend:

  1. Don’t reapply — appeal instead
  2. Contact a disability attorney ASAP
  3. Gather updated medical records
  4. Be honest and detailed about your limitations
  5. Don’t miss deadlines

📞 Need help fast? Call us or fill out our free case review form.


Why Having a Lawyer Increases Your Chances

According to the SSA’s own data, people who hire a disability attorney:

✅ Are more likely to win at the hearing level
✅ Have stronger medical evidence submitted
✅ Avoid costly mistakes or missed deadlines
✅ Are better prepared to answer questions from judges

At Crossroads Disability, we’ve helped clients across Indiana and beyond get approved — even after a denial.

Common Questions After a Denial




  • Should I apply again instead of appealing?

    No — you risk restarting the clock and losing out on months of backpay.

  • Can I afford a lawyer?

    Yes — we only get paid if we win your case. Our fee comes from your backpay and is capped by law.

  • What if I’ve already been denied more than once?

    You can still win your case, especially if we handle your appeal and add the right medical evidence.

We Handle SSDI Denials Across Indiana

We represent clients throughout Indiana and nationwide. Whether your case is in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, Terre Haute, or rural counties — we can help you appeal remotely and get the benefits you deserve.


Start Your Free Appeal Review Today

If you’ve been denied, time is ticking. Let our experienced disability lawyers help you fight back — and win.



By Anthony Tanoos July 8, 2025
Want to clear your record in Indiana? Learn how expungement works in 2025, who qualifies, how long it takes, and how to get started today.
By Anthony Tanoos July 7, 2025
Find out if you qualify for Social Security Disability (SSDI) in 2025. Learn the medical, work history, and legal requirements in this clear, up-to-date guide.
A briefcase filled with stacks of 100 dollar bills
By Anthony Tanoos July 5, 2025
You won your disability case — now what? Learn what to expect in backpay, monthly checks, Medicare, and continuing reviews after your SSDI approval.
A man in a suit is sitting at a desk with two other men standing around him.
By Anthony Tanoos July 2, 2025
Local disability lawyers know your judges, your SSA office, and your state-specific rules. Find out why that matters and how it can help win your SSDI case.
A magnifying glass is being used to look at the inside of a person 's body.
By Anthony Tanoos June 30, 2025
Find out which physical and mental health conditions qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in 2025. Includes official listings and tips to win.
A man is reaching for a clock that shows the time as 4:20
By Anthony Tanoos June 27, 2025
Wondering how long it takes to get approved for SSDI or SSI? Here’s a stage-by-stage breakdown of the disability process and how to avoid delays in 2025.
A person is filling out an application on a laptop computer at a table.
By Anthony Tanoos June 25, 2025
Filing for SSDI or SSI? Learn how to correctly fill out the Social Security Disability application to avoid delays, denials, and costly mistakes.
A man is jumping in the air with his fist in the air.
By Anthony Tanoos June 23, 2025
Nervous about your disability hearing? Learn how to prepare, what to expect, and how to improve your chances of winning your SSDI or SSI case.
A notebook is open to a page that says health insurance
By Anthony Tanoos June 20, 2025
Already approved for SSDI? Learn what other benefits you may qualify for, including Medicare, SNAP, housing aid, and more. Maximize your SSDI support.
A man is writing on a piece of paper with a pen.
By Anthony Tanoos June 18, 2025
Denied Social Security Disability? Learn how to appeal your SSD or SSI denial in 2025, and how Crossroads Disability can help you win your case.
Show More