Filing for Social Security Disability Insurance can be a lengthy and frustrating process. This situation may become even more frustrating if you receive a denial of your claim. Fortunately, you can file an appeal to have your claim reconsidered.
We understand how the law works regarding SSDI and have helped many of our clients appeal a denied claim.
How to appeal a denied claim
As found on the Social Security website, you may appeal a decision if you disagree with the outcome. Typically, you will have 60 days from the date you receive notice of your denial to make an appeal. If you receive a second denial, you may appeal that decision as well. In fact, there are four levels of appeals that you may complete before a denial is absolute.
The levels of appeal
The following four levels of appeal are available if you have received a denial of your initial claim.
- This involves another complete review of your claim. It is not done by the person who originally reviewed or denied your claim. Instead, a different person will review your claim and make a decision based on the information provided.
- Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge. Similar to a reconsideration, this involves a judge who was not involved in your initial claim or the appeal for reconsideration.
- Request for review by the Appeals Council. If the Council believes that your claim has received an accurate denial at this point, it may deny your request for a review.
- Federal Court review. This option is appropriate if the Appeals Council decides not to review your claim, or if they issue another denial that you do not agree with.
