What percentage of SSDI claims are denied?

SSDI denial rates are high — and understanding them helps you set realistic expectations and make smart decisions about representation.

Denial rates by stage (national averages):

• Initial application: ~65–67% denied
• Reconsideration: ~85–87% denied
• ALJ hearing: ~43–47% denied (meaning roughly 55% approved)
• Appeals Council: AC grants review in fewer than 20% of requests; most result in remand rather than direct approval

The ALJ hearing is statistically the level where most claimants win. This is why you should not give up after an initial or reconsideration denial — those denials are routine and do not reflect the strength of your underlying case.

Representation matters: Multiple GAO and SSA Office of Inspector General studies confirm that represented claimants are approved at substantially higher rates than unrepresented ones. The exact difference varies by study, but estimates range from 2x to 3x higher approval rates with attorney representation.

Common reasons for denial:

• Insufficient medical evidence
• Earnings above SGA
• Condition expected to last fewer than 12 months
• Failure to follow prescribed treatment
• Substance use disorders contributing to disability (DAA analysis)

Do not let the statistics discourage you. Our attorneys have won cases that SSA denied twice before. No fee unless we win — federal fee cap of 25% of back-pay, maximum $7,200.