I Was Denied Social Security, Now What?
Among the Majority: Denied Social Security
If your social security disability (SSD) claim or supplemental security income (SSI) claim is denied, you are among the high percent of applicants who receive denial letters at the initial application. In fact, according to the Social Security Administration around 30 percent of the claims are approved at the initial application. If you are denied social security at the initial application, that is not saying you are not disabled or your claim is not important. You have the option to push through to the appeals process for further consideration.
The Next Step: Appeal Process for Denied Social Security
If your application is denied, you can continue with your claim through the various levels of the appeal process. You have a 60 day window to submit your appeal after receiving the denial letter. There are four levels of appeals, in which you further proceed to each one if your appeal is denied:
- Reconsideration – by someone who did not take part in the first decision
- Hearing by an administrative law judge (ALJ)
- Review by the Appeals council
- Review by the Federal Court
Benefits of Legal Help during the Appeal Process for Denied Social Security
Trying to navigate through the appeal process on your own could be very stressful and time-consuming. The process can be even more difficult for you when the benefits you are claiming for are much needed. Instead of trying to handle the process yourself, let a social security disability lawyer guide you step by step through the appeal process. A lawyer can benefit you and your claim by:
- Evaluating your evidence and determining what would be best for your claim
- Providing legal representation at the hearing
- Preparing you and your witnesses for your hearing
- Expediting the process
A social security and worker disability lawyer will handle your claim for you, and represent you throughout your entire appeal process. Call today for a free consultation with an experienced social security and worker disability lawyer.
SOURCES:
1. Social Security Administration. The Appeal Process. Retrieved November 26, 2014.
2. Social Security Administration. Your Right to Representation. Retrieved November 26, 2014.
3. Social Security Administration. Annual Statistical Report on the Social Security Disability Insurance Program. Retrieved November 26, 2014.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Social Security Administration: Online Appeal Application
