Fighting for disability benefits is hard enough—don’t let your words work against you.
The SSA scrutinizes every statement in your application, interviews, and medical records. One careless phrase can give them a reason to deny your claim.
This isn’t about lying. It’s about knowing what to say—and what not to say—to protect your case.
In this article, Pinyerd Law, a seasoned disability law firm, will discuss the most common verbal mistakes that derail claims. Avoid them, and you’ll stand a stronger chance of getting the benefits you deserve.
9 Things to Avoid Saying During Your Social Security Disability Case
Can words hinder your case? Yes, significantly.
Saying the wrong thing at the wrong time can cost you your benefits.
Let’s see what’s best left unsaid (or how to say it correctly) to ensure a smooth, successful Social Security disability case:
1.”I’m Fine – It’s Not That Bad”
It’s natural to minimize struggles, especially when discussing disabilities.
But telling the Social Security Administration (SSA) you’re “managing okay” or “getting by” gives them grounds to deny your claim. The system requires proof that your condition prevents work; vague optimism undermines that.
Instead:
- Describe specific limitations
- Explain bad days in detail
- Let medical records speak for you
2.”I’m Getting Better”
The SSA will look for any sign that you might recover and can go to work. Mentioning improvement–even casually–gives them reason to doubt your long-term disability.
Instead:
- Clarify it’s temporary relief, not a cure (the medication helps, but it’s not a permanent fix)
- Document symptoms fluctuation
- Have your doctor explain the chronic nature of your condition
3.”I Could Work if Someone Hired Me”
This statement proves to the SSA that you believe you’re employable–their exact reason to deny benefits.
Instead:
- Explain physical/mental barriers to employment (“My unpredictable seizures make any workplace unsafe”)
- Use doctor’s work restrictions (“My physician states I can’t lift over 5 lbs or maintain a schedule”)
- Clarify: “I want to work, but my medical evidence shows I can’t sustain any job”
4.”It Hurts” (Be Specific About Pain)
Pain is subjective, but disability determinations require objective evidence.
Simply saying “it hurts” gives the SSA nothing to evaluate. Claims examiners need specific, medically-consistent details that align with your diagnosis.
Instead:
- Be anatomical: “The arthritis in both knees causes grinding pain with every step”
- Quantify severity: “My migraine pain reaches 8/10 for 12+ hours, 3 times weekly”
- Show functional impact: “The pain is so distracting I can’t complete simple tasks”
Your healthcare provider or disability attorney can help you learn appropriate terms to discuss your disability pain.
5.”I Stopped Treatment” or “I’m Not Seeing a Doctor”
The SSA views treatment history as proof of severity. Without consistent medical documentation, they assume your condition is unlikely to be that serious.
But valid reasons exist; the key is explaining them properly.
Instead:
- If cost was an issue: “I lost insurance coverage in 2024 but used the ER during flare-ups”
- If treatment failed: “After 3 different medications caused severe side effects, my doctor recommended…”
- Show current plans: “I’m on a waitlist for the low-income clinic and have an intake appointment…”
Seeking medical assistance and following your doctor’s recommendations are crucial to securing disability benefits.
6.”I Have a History of Drug Use or Legal Trouble”
While honesty is important, unsolicited disclosures about past substance use or legal issues can trigger unfair biases.
The SSA may wrongfully assume your current disability is self-inflicted or question your credibility.
Instead:
- Only discuss if directly asked during proceedings
- Clarify timelines: “That was 8 years ago, unrelated to my current back injury”
- Show rehabilitation evidence: “I’ve been sober since 2020, confirmed by my treatment team”
7.”My Relative Gets Disability Benefits”
Mentioning family members’ benefits raises red flags – it suggests you’re seeking benefits based on familiarity rather than medical need. Each case stands on its own merits.
Instead:
- Focus exclusively on your medical evidence
- If asked, respond: “I’m only familiar with my own condition and limitations”
- Let your doctor’s opinions carry weight, not family history
8.”I’m Hiring a Lawyer” (Don’t Threaten, Just Do It)
Having an attorney is highly advised; they’ll ensure your paperwork is airtight and fight for your rights.
However, threatening the SSA with legal action during interviews or forms can backfire spectacularly. Even if evaluators seem unfair, openly declaring you’re getting a lawyer puts them on guard.
Instead:
- Secure legal assistance–no need to declare it.
- Let your attorney manage confrontations or appeals
- Stay professional in all communications
9.”This Process is a Waste of Time”
The system tests endurance, but venting frustration gives the SSA reasons to doubt your urgency. Examiners document uncooperative attitudes.
Instead:
- Stay professional in all communications
- Frame delays as hardships: “While I wait, my condition prevents any income”
- Let your attorney address unfair treatment
Protect Your Claim—Every Word Matters
The disability process is designed to challenge you, but you control the narrative.
Avoid these verbal pitfalls, stick to medical facts, and let a qualified attorney handle the legal heavy lifting. Your benefits are worth the patience and careful approach.
Or, you can work with a professional disability lawyer and let them manage communication on your behalf.