Upon getting notice from the Social Security Administration (SSA) that your application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits has been denied, your initial reaction may be to feel defeated. However, you must not give up hope just yet, as you may still have a second chance to prove your case. Read on to discover the best approach to handle an SSDI benefits denial and how a seasoned New Jersey SSDI appeals lawyer at The Law Offices of Sheryl Gandel Mazur can help you follow this approach vehemently.
What should I do immediately upon being denied SSDI benefits?
To better figure out what your next move should be, it may help if you take the time to reflect on why your initial application for SSDI benefits was denied in the first place. Of note, the SSA’s denial letter should disclose their reasoning for denying your claim. As an example, the SSA may explain that you provided insufficient medical evidence to prove your physical, mental, or emotional disability. Or, they may share that you already receive sufficient funds from Social Security Insurance (SSI) benefits. Otherwise, they may argue that you have insufficient work credits.
From here, you may take the SSA’s specific explanation to obtain evidence that refutes it. This evidence may prove pivotal when you file for an appeal on your SSDI benefits denial.
What is the best approach to handle an SSDI benefits denial?
To reiterate, the best way to respond to the SSA’s denial letter is to file a request for reconsideration appeal. In doing so, you must ensure that you precisely follow the below approach:
- You must fill out and file Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration), a Reconsideration Disability Report, and an Authorization to Disclose Information to the SSA.
- You must write and file an appeals letter that explains why you disagree with the SSA’s decision to deny your initial SSDI benefits application.
- You must file any additional medical records you have received since your initial SSDI benefits application submission.
- You must file all the aforementioned documents within 60 days from the date you received your denial letter.
Unfortunately, it may be possible that your reconsideration appeal will also denied. In this case, you may have to move on to the next phase of the appeals process, requesting a hearing with an administrative law judge. If you are denied here, as well, then you may have to request a hearing with the Social Security Appeals Council. Your last chance may be to file a federal court appeal.
Arguably the most important action you must remember to take is to hire a competent New Jersey SSDI appeals lawyer. Our team at The Law Offices of Sheryl Gandel Mazur looks forward to working with you.
