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At Gerling Law, we know first-hand how stressful it can be to apply for social security benefits. In addition to being unable to work, most individuals also have anxiety that stems from the possibility of social security benefits denial.

What does this mean, exactly? Simply put, some people are denied their benefits. However, learning why can be beneficial to you and your family.

About Social Security Benefits Denial

According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, social security benefits are based on the earnings on which you pay Social Security payroll taxes. More so, the higher amount you pay, the higher your earnings. However, facts and figures can become extremely confusing.

guy holding a thumbs up social security benefits denial

If you are concerned that the SSA might deny your social security benefits, then educating yourself on common reasons as to why other cases of social security benefits denial happen may help.

For example, earning too much money can harm you. Notably, you may find your social security benefits being denied if you are working above the limit that is considered “substantial gainful activity.” Or, you are earning too much money to be considered “disabled.” As a result, if these are true when you apply, you will not qualify.

Other reasons for denial may include the following:

  • the disability won’t last long enough or isn’t severe enough
  • the individual is being unreasonable or refuses to cooperate
  • the disability occurred due to a drug or alcohol abuse problem
  • you have been convicted of a crime.

Social Security Benefits Denial—Getting Help

So, if you have experienced social security benefits denial that you believe is unfair or unjust, you could benefit from having an attorney on your side. As stated above, we understand how hard this time can be for you and your family. Furthermore, we have experience with these types of cases. Don’t face the challenging journey alone. Leave the legal process to the professionals. Receiving a “no” from Social Security isn’t the end of the road, so don’t lose hope.


Gerling Law is a leading personal injury law firm dedicated to providing aggressive legal representation to individuals and their families.  With over 50 years of experience, Gerling Law has helped thousands of people in Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky recover hundreds of thousands of dollars in a wide variety of personal injury and consumer protection cases, including trucking accidents, wrongful death, medical malpractice, nursing home negligence and social security disability. In addition, Gerling Law takes pride in the fact that we have never represented insurance companies, hospitals or large corporations and that we fight against powerful companies for our clients.

If you need an experienced, dedicated personal injury lawyer, Gerling Law is here to help.  You can always reach us at 888-GERLING (888-437-5464) or through our website at https://www.gerlinglaw.com/.

Author Photo

Gayle Gerling Pettinga

Born and raised in Evansville, Gayle is a respected, experienced lawyer and a valued community leader. She graduated near the top of her class at Indiana University’s prestigious Maurer School of Law. She’s practiced law with one of the largest firms in Indianapolis as well as one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world. And that means she knows how big law firms and big companies think and how they operate – and she will put that knowledge to work for you.

Gayle has received numerous awards and honors including Martindale-Hubbell — Peer Review Rated: AV®, American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys 10 Best Attorneys in Indiana for Exceptional and Outstanding Client Service, and YWCA Evansville 100 Years, 100 Women Honoree, 2011.

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