WHAT IS A TECHNICAL DENIAL?

Over 27% of initial applications are denied before even being reviewed due to what is called a “technical denial.” A technical denial occurs when an applicant does not meet the general, non-medical requirements for disability benefits. Below are some common reasons for technical denials:

• Not enough work history was shown for proper eligibility.
• The claimant is currently working over the allowed limit.
• The claimant is receiving too much in earned and/or unearned income (applies to SSI only, not to SSDI)
• The claimant has too much in assets (applies to SSI, but not to SSDI).
• The appeal was not filed within the required deadline.

When a technical denial is appropriate, the claimant's medical impairment is not even considered.  The application is essentially withdrawn without a medical decision, meaning Social Security doesn't determine whether the claimant is disabled or not.

A word about work history.  Social Security disability (SSDI) is an insurance program sponsored by the federal government.  Workers pay into SSDI through payroll deduction.  The tax is called FICA through the Federal Insurance Contribution Act.  This is the tax that funds SSDI and Medicare.  When an individual stops working, he/she stops paying FICA tax.  Like any other insurance, when you stop paying, the coverage eventually expires.  The general rule of thumb:  You should have worked and paid FICA tax for at least 5 out of the most recent 10 year period.  It's easier to understand when you think of Social Security disability as an insurance plan for workers.  It is the ability to work that is being insured.  

Generally, Social Security continues to cover you for about 5 years after you stop working.  There can be exceptions.  For someone who has not worked in 6 or 8 years, it is unlikely that you are covered by Social Security disability.  Call the local Social Security office to find out.