Stages Of The Social Security Disability Appeals Process
Posted on: 8 December 2020
When you are denied your SSDI claim, you'll want to contact a Social Security Disability lawyer as soon as possible so you can increase the odds that your claim will ultimately be accepted. Fortunately, you will have several levels of appeals you can go through to make sure that you receive the benefits you need.
Reconsideration
The first step is to go online and file a request for reconsideration. Then, your claim will be reviewed by someone who did not play a role in the original determination. In this situation, all evidence you previously submitted will be reviewed and you will also be allowed to submit new evidence. You'll want to speak with an attorney about what medical evidence you should include to maximize the chances that your claim is approved after the reconsideration.
Administrative Law Judge Hearing
If your request for reconsideration is denied, you are then allowed to request a hearing with an administrative law judge. Fortunately, you will not have to travel far to attend a hearing because the location for the hearing will be a place that is nearby and convenient for you. Under some circumstances, you may be able to attend a hearing through one of several hearing sites. After you have requested the hearing, you will receive a confirmation package that will provide you with all the information you need about the hearing.
The Appeals Council
If your case has been denied by the administrative law judge, it's less likely that your case will be approved of by the Appeals Council because they have the option to simply agree with the ruling of the administrative law judge. If the appeals council does decide to review your case, though, they may decide to send the case back to the administrative law judge or make a decision themselves. Regardless, there is no reason not to file your case to the appeals council because they approve cases every day.
The most common reason why a claim is denied is that there is not enough medical evidence. You will need to seek medical treatment and this will create documentation that can support that you are suffering from a particular medical condition and that this is preventing you from working. You will also need to follow the medical advice of your doctor or have a good reason for why you are not. However, each case is unique and it's always helpful to consult with a Social Security Disability lawyer.
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