If you’ve applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Tulsa and received a denial, you’re not alone. The majority of first-time SSDI applications in Oklahoma are denied. But receiving that letter doesn’t mean you’re not disabled—it just means the SSA didn’t find enough evidence or reason to approve your claim at this stage.
The good news? You can fight back. With the right strategy and support, many applicants win their cases on appeal. In this post, we’ll explore the most common reasons SSDI claims in Tulsa get denied and how Social Security Law Center helps clients overcome those hurdles to secure the benefits they deserve.
Why SSDI Claims Are Denied in Tulsa
1. Lack of Sufficient Medical Evidence
Medical documentation is the cornerstone of any SSDI claim. The SSA needs clear, thorough evidence that:
- You have a medically determinable impairment
- Your condition prevents you from working
- The disability is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
Many applicants submit vague doctor’s notes or outdated records, which often leads to a quick denial.
What to Do Instead:
Work with your doctors to provide detailed medical reports, test results, imaging studies, and a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment that outlines your work limitations.
2. Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment
Suppose you don’t follow your doctor’s recommended treatment plan (such as physical therapy, medication, or surgery). In that case, the SSA may determine that your condition could improve—and deny your claim.
How to Fight Back:
Suppose you had a valid reason for not following treatment (e.g., side effects, religious beliefs, lack of access). In that case, your lawyer can explain that to the SSA or judge during the appeal.
3. The SSA Believes You Can Still Work
Even if you can’t return to your old job, the SSA may argue that you can do other types of work, especially if you’re under 50.
They consider:
- Age
- Education
- Work experience
- Physical and mental capabilities
What to Do:
Your lawyer can present vocational evidence, expert testimony, and legal arguments showing why your condition rules out any meaningful employment.
4. Earning Too Much Income
Suppose you’re working and earning more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold (currently $1,550/month for most applicants in 2024). In that case, the SSA may assume you’re not disabled.
Your Options:
If you’re trying to work but unable to sustain it, keep detailed records and explain the unsuccessful work attempt. Your attorney can help you document this clearly for the SSA.
5. Application Errors or Incomplete Paperwork
Missing documents, skipped questions, or inconsistent information can lead to an immediate denial—even if you’re otherwise qualified.
How to Fix It:
Review your application for accuracy before submission. Better yet, have a legal team handle the filing to ensure every detail is correct.
6. Disability Doesn’t Meet SSA’s Definition
The SSA has a strict definition of disability. You must prove that your condition prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
If the SSA determines your condition is temporary, not severe, or not well-supported by evidence, your claim may be denied.
What to Do:
A skilled SSDI lawyer can help build your case around the SSA’s specific criteria, linking your symptoms directly to work limitations.
How to Appeal a Denied SSDI Claim in Tulsa
If your SSDI claim is denied, don’t give up. You can file an appeal within 60 days. The appeals process includes:
- Reconsideration – A new SSA reviewer looks at your case
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing – Your best chance for approval
- Appeals Council review
- Federal court review
Your lawyer can introduce new evidence at each level, clarify existing records, and present a compelling legal case.
How Social Security Law Center Helps Tulsa Clients Fight Back
At Social Security Law Center, we’ve helped hundreds of clients in Tulsa get approved for SSDI—even after one or more denials. Here’s how we help:
- We review your denial letter in detail to identify what went wrong
- We gather missing medical records and request updated documentation from your doctors
- We prepare and submit your appeal, ensuring deadlines are met, and forms are accurate
- We represent you at hearings, cross-examining SSA experts and presenting your case with clarity and confidence
- We keep you informed every step of the way so you’re never in the dark
Our team works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let a denial discourage you from pursuing the SSDI benefits you need. Whether it’s your first rejection or your third, there are always ways to improve your case and fight back. The key is knowing where the problems lie—and how to fix them.
If your SSDI claim in Tulsa has been denied, we’re ready to help. Contact the Social Security Law Center today for a free consultation. Let us fight for your benefits while you focus on your health.
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