Most disabled workers who are denied Social Security disability benefits are denied for medical reasons. The Social Security Administration (SSA) finds that their medical conditions do not prevent them from performing work. However, some disability applicants are denied benefits for a reason that isn’t medical or otherwise related to their disabilities, and they receive from the SSA what’s called a “technical” denial of benefits. If you are unable to work and you have been denied Social Security disability benefits for any reason, appeal that denial right away and contact an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability lawyer as quickly as possible. If you are recently disabled and have not applied for benefits, put a good Social Security disability attorney on your case from the start.
Common Reasons for Technical Denials
- Earning Above the Substantial Gainful Activity Limit
If you are currently working and earning above the SSA’s monthly Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, you may receive a technical denial. For 2026, the SGA amount is $1,690 per month for non‑blind individuals and $2,830 per month for statutorily blind individuals. Earning above these limits generally means the SSA considers you capable of engaging in substantial work activity, which can lead to a denial. - Insufficient Work History
For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked long enough and paid enough into the system to qualify. If you haven’t accrued sufficient work credits, your SSDI claim may be denied for technical reasons. In such cases, applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a needs‑based disability program with no past earnings requirement, may be a better path.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Too much income isn’t the only reason for technical denials. If you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you may be technically denied benefits if you haven’t worked enough to pay enough into Social Security. Your attorney can decide if you should instead apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a needs-based disability benefit program with no past earnings requirements. When you put a good disability lawyer on your case from the beginning, your attorney will know which benefit program is best for you, and then your attorney can review all of your paperwork and guide you through the process. If you are disabled in the Los Angeles area and unable to work, discuss your disability, your rights, and your options immediately with an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability lawyer.