How Do I Appeal a Denied Social Security Disability Claim?

If you’ve been denied Social Security disability benefits, you should have received a letter from the Social Security Administration giving the reason for denial. If you disagree with the decision or are prepared to submit further information or documentation to support your claim for SSDI benefits, you need to make your request for an appeal in writing within 60 days of receiving the letter.

It’s easy to begin the appeals process by clicking here.

There are four possible steps to the process of appealing a denied Social Security Disability claim, and they must be followed in order.

Reconsideration is a simple review of your claim, allowing you the option of submitting new information or documentation. You will need to fill out a Request for Reconsideration and an Appeal Disability Report. These forms can be filled out and submitted electronically, or filled out manually and mailed to your local Social Security office. Once your request is received and forwarded to the State Disability Determination Services office, your records will be reviewed and you will be notified in writing of any decision.

The second step, if necessary, involves a hearing by an administrative law judge. To request a hearing you will need to fill out a Request for Hearing by Administrative Law Judge and an Appeal Disability Report. Your request will be forwarded by the Social Security Administration to the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review. You may request an in-person meeting with the judge, although this is not required. Whether such a meeting takes place or not, you will be informed in writing of the judge’s decision.

The third step, if necessary, is consideration by the Social Security Appeals Council.  You will need to fill out a Request for Review of Decision/Order of Administrative Law Judge. This must be signed and sent to your local Social Security office. It cannot be submitted on the Internet. Your request will be forwarded to the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review and you will be informed in writing of the decision.

The fourth step, if necessary, requires you to file a lawsuit in Federal Court. You will need to use an attorney if your appeal reaches this level. After a district court judge hears your case, you will be informed in writing of the judge’s decision. This is the final step in the appeals process.

If you’d like further information about how to appeal Social Security Disability denials, MedicareMall will be happy to answer any questions. And, of course, if there’s anything you’d like to know about Medicare Part A, Medicare Part B, Medicare Advantage, or Medigap plans, MedicareMall will be happy to answer those questions, too. Contact MedicareMall now and we’ll make it our priority to see you get the health care or disability coverage that’s right for you.

Back to top