The SSA is notorious for denying initial claims for SSDI and other benefits on technical or procedural grounds. The majority of all claims filed each year are rejected, and many claimants must work with experienced attorneys to resolve various issues with their claims before refiling. The SSA can take several attempts to consider a claim, but an initial claim can succeed if it is filed correctly with all supporting documentation. Hiring legal counsel to assist you significantly improves your chances of success the first time.