Upon receiving notice from the Social Security Administration (SSA), you may feel helpless that your application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits has been rejected. However, you may rest assured knowing you are afforded a second chance via the appeals process. But because this is your final chance for benefits, it is strongly encouraged that you retain legal assistance from the jump. Continue reading to learn how an experienced New Jersey SSDI appeals lawyer at The Law Offices of Sheryl Gandel Mazur can step in if your initial SSDI benefits claim gets denied.
Why might I have to undergo the SSDI appeals process in the first place?
It is likely that you indeed have a physical, mental, or emotional disability that is severe enough to qualify for SSDI benefits. Yet you may have failed to adequately portray this reality to the SSA. Without further ado, below are possible reasons as to why your initial SSDI benefits application may have been denied:
- The SSA may have concluded that you engage in substantial gainful activity.
- The SSA may have concluded that you suffered from your disability for less than one year.
- The SSA may have concluded that you failed to collect a sufficient amount of work credits throughout your lifetime.
- The SSA may have concluded that you failed to respond to requests for additional documentation.
- The SSA may have concluded that you failed to meet the deadline set for your application.
In what ways can a lawyer help me through the SSDI appeals process?
Simply put, a lawyer may work to ensure that you are properly prepared to undergo the SSDI appeals process; all while working on your behalf to ensure that your appeal is given proper consideration. Without further ado, a lawyer may help you through the following steps:
- A lawyer may file a reconsideration appeal on your behalf.
- If denied, a lawyer may present your case on your behalf at an administrative law judge hearing:
- They may question expert witnesses.
- They may call you and any other witnesses to testify.
- They may respond to certain biases held against your medical condition.
- They may negotiate to minimize the damages placed against your initial application.
- If denied, a lawyer may collect additional evidence to submit to the Social Security Appeals Council.
- If denied, a lawyer may file a civil lawsuit with the federal district court within 60 days after you receive notice.
Undoubtedly, there is much to consider before filing an appeal. But of note, our team has over 30 years of experience in handling appeals just like yours. This is why your next order of business should be to initiate a conversation with a skilled New Jersey SSDI appeals lawyer. Someone at The Law Offices of Sheryl Gandel Mazur will await your phone call.
