Why Did Social Security Deny My Disability Claim?
- Royce Nunley
- Nov 8, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 3
Understanding SSDI Denials and How The Nunley Law Group Can Help
Receiving a denial letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) after applying for disability benefits can feel devastating—especially when you’re struggling to work, pay your bills, and maintain your health. Unfortunately, if your initial claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) was denied, you’re not alone.
At The Nunley Law Group, we handle a large volume of Social Security claims across Metro Detroit, and one thing is clear: a denial doesn’t mean you’re out of options—it means it’s time to build a stronger case.
Most Disability Claims Are Denied at First
The statistics are eye-opening. Between 2010 and 2019, only about 21% of SSDI claims were approved at the initial application stage. That means nearly 80% of applicants receive a denial—even those with serious physical or mental impairments.
But why?
The #1 Reason SSDI Claims Are Denied: Missing Medical Evidence
One of the most common—and frustrating—reasons that claims are denied is due to incomplete or missing medical records. Despite what many applicants believe, the SSA does not go out of its way to gather the evidence needed to support your case.
Claims examiners are not required to contact all of your doctors or retrieve all of your treatment records. If your file doesn’t include enough medical documentation to prove your disability, the examiner will likely deny your claim—even if you clearly meet the criteria.
How a Disability Attorney Can Help Build a Winning Case
That’s where we come in.
At The Nunley Law Group, our team works diligently to ensure your case file includes every necessary medical record, test result, and physician statement. This often means:
Contacting multiple doctors’ offices and hospitals
Collecting years’ worth of medical history
Ensuring mental health records are included (which are often overlooked)
Reviewing your file before a hearing to ensure it's complete and accurate
This kind of detailed work takes time, persistence, and experience—but it's essential for giving you the best chance at success during your appeal.
SSA Won’t Do It—But We Will
The hard truth is: the SSA isn’t going to do the legwork for you. They won’t chase down missing records or clarify details about your condition. If important medical evidence is missing, they will deny your claim.
The good news? We will do that work for you. Our firm has extensive experience managing Social Security appeals and hearings. We know what hearing officers need to see, and we make sure your case file tells the full story of your disability.
You Don’t Have to Fight This Alone
If you’ve been denied SSDI or SSI benefits, don’t give up. We’ve helped countless clients throughout Michigan, including Wayne County, Macomb County, Oakland County and surrounding areas, turn a denial into an approval of benefits. With the right legal strategy and complete documentation, you can still receive the financial support you need and deserve.
Contact The Nunley Law Group today for a free consultation.
Let us help you take the next step toward winning your disability benefits.
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| About the Author
Email. Royce@nunleylawgroup.com
Tel. 586-778-4555
Royce Nunley is the founder and lead attorney at The Nunley Law Group, where he represents clients in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Defense, Social Security Disability, and Personal Injury. Known for his client-focused approach and legal insight, Royce is deeply committed to delivering personalized legal solutions tailored to each individual's needs.
Royce earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, Cum Laude, from Wayne State University, and continued his education at Wayne State University Law School, where he received his Juris Doctorate, also Cum Laude. His academic excellence laid a strong foundation for a career marked by both compassion and tenacity in the courtroom.
Royce has been recognized for his outstanding work in Family Law, earning the distinction of Super Lawyers "Rising Star" for six consecutive years—2019 through 2024—an honor reserved for only the top 2.5% of attorneys in the state.
With a reputation for taking the time to truly understand his clients and their legal challenges, Royce ensures that every person who walks through his door receives the respect, transparency, and tireless advocacy they deserve.
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