Receiving a denial letter for your Social Security Disability benefits may seem overwhelming; you may also get flustered on what to do next. However, there is good news: You are entitled to a review by the Social Security Administration Appeals Council, which means you have the right to appeal this decision and have your case reviewed again to get the benefits.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) administrative appeals operation is one of the world's largest administrative judicial systems that supplies more than half a million appeal and hearing dispositions each year.
Our Pennsylvania Social Security Disability appeals lawyers provide information on the levels of the appeal process available to those who have been denied Social Security Disability benefits.
What To Do if Your SSD Claim Was Denied
Before beginning the steps of the appeals process, it's always a good idea to consult with a knowledgeable Social Security Disability attorney. An attorney can help ensure you meet all the deadlines, discuss your options, prepare questions about your disability, and help you submit medical evidence for the appeals process.
The Four Levels Of SSDI Appeals Process
You have the opportunity to appeal the decision within 60 days, after receiving a notice of denial. There are four stages of this process.
1. Reconsideration
This first stage of reconsideration involves a complete review of your application; the reviewer is someone who did not take part in your initial application. In this phase, your case will be evaluated, and your original evidence will be reviewed again. You also have the chance to present additional medical evidence for your case.
2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge
If you did not get the decision you wanted in the reconsideration stage, you might request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). As an applicant, you can complete an online request for a hearing. It's crucial to understand that the hearing process can be long and complicated; it's essential to keep track of your claim.
3. Appeals Council Review
If the judge rules against you, you have the opportunity to request the Appeals Council (AC) review your application. It's important to note that you must request an Appeals Council review within 60 days of your hearing decision. You can request an Appeals Council review in several ways:
Contact your local Social Security Office
4. Federal Court Case
This is the last phase of the appeal process. Suppose you disagree with the Appeals Council's decision. In that case, the next step is to file a civil suit in a Federal district court. When filing a civil action seeking judicial review, it's essential to send copies of the complaint you filed and the summons issued. The Social Security Administration (SSA) staff will prepare the record of your claim, and it will also include all documents and evidence you provided for the determination of your case.
Contact a Pennsylvania SSD Appeal Lawyers
Rubin & Badame, Attorneys at Law, P.C. has over 35 years of experience helping individuals with disabilities get the financial assistance they deserve. Our Pennsylvania SDD appeals lawyers can help you through the process, gathering medical information, representing you clearly and concisely, and ensuring all the proper paperwork is filled out correctly and on time. Our dedicated team provides reliable guidance for those who have been denied benefits with their appeals process. Contact us today at (610) 595-4917 to schedule a free case consultation.