Appeals Process for Denied SSDI Claims

If you have been denied Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, it can be frustrating and overwhelming. However, it’s important to remember that a denial does not necessarily mean the end of the road. In fact, there is an appeals process in place to help you fight for the benefits you need.

Learn more about what happens if your SSDI claim is denied and how many times you can be denied before running out of options.

What Happens if You Get Denied for SSDI?

If your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim is denied, you will receive a notice explaining why your claim was denied and how to appeal the decision. It’s important to read this notice carefully and understand the reasons for denial.

There are several reasons why an SSDI claim may be denied, including:

• Lack of medical evidence: If there is not enough medical evidence to support your claim or if your condition does not meet the criteria outlined in the Blue Book, your claim may be denied.

• Failure to cooperate: If you fail to provide requested information or attend scheduled appointments related to your disability evaluation, your claim may be denied.

• Income or work history: To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must have worked long enough and recently enough to earn a certain number of work credits. If you do not meet these requirements, your claim may be denied.

If your claim is denied, the first step in the appeals process is to file a Request for Reconsideration. This must be done within 60 days of receiving the notice of denial. During this stage, a different examiner will review your case and any new evidence you provide.

If your Request for Reconsideration is also denied, you can then request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). At this stage, it’s important to have legal representation to help prepare and present your case effectively. If the ALJ denies your claim, you can then appeal to the Appeals Council. Finally, if all other options are exhausted, you can file a lawsuit in federal court.

How Many Times Can You Be Denied SSDI?

Technically speaking, there is no limit to how many times you can be denied SSDI benefits. However, it’s important to understand that each level of the appeals process becomes more challenging than the last.

It’s also important to recognize that the appeals process can be lengthy. Each stage can take several months or even years to complete, depending on the backlog of cases and other factors.

It’s crucial to have legal representation throughout the entire appeals process. An experienced SSDI lawyer can help you navigate each stage, gather necessary evidence, and present a strong case for approval.

How Disability Action Advocates Can Help You

If you're dealing with a Social Security Disability case, even the smallest issues can hold significant weight. That's why working with an SSD lawyer is beneficial. The legal requirements and language can be extensive and stressful, but a professional lawyer can clarify each point of the process for your best chance at a favorable outcome.

Our team provides personalized guidance throughout every step of the process, from filing paperwork to representing you at your hearing. We have helped many clients in Dallas and Fort Worth, and we want to help you too. Contact Disability Action Advocates today for seasoned legal representation that reduces stress and improves upon any weaknesses in your current file.