My Social Security Disability Claim Has Been Denied – Now What?
When the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies an initial claim for disability or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, the person who is denied is allowed to appeal the decision. There are four different levels of appeal, according to the SSA: reconsideration, hearing, Appeals Council, and federal court. An experienced SSDI attorney may help you through the process at all four stages.
During reconsideration, the initial claim is reviewed by someone who did not participate in handling your claim the first time. The person reviews any new medical records or other evidence as well as everything you submitted with your original application.
If you are turned down after reconsideration, you may ask for a hearing with the SSA. Hearings take place in front of an administrative law judge. You may be represented by an attorney during your hearing and may present evidence to the judge as to why your claim should be granted.
If the administrative law judge upholds the SSDI denial, the next step is to take the case to the Appeals Council, also part of the SSA. The Appeals Council may decide not to hear the case, if it believes the administrative law judge made the right call. If this happens, or if the Appeals Council hears your case but turns you down anyway, you may appeal to a federal district court. You do not have to take any of these steps alone: an attorney can help you through the entire process.
An experienced St. Louis injury attorney is dedicated to helping people receive the support of disability payments they need. If you're facing disability and need help navigating the Social Security process, call Page Law today at (314) 322-8515 for a free and confidential consultation.
