Most people who apply to receive Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits from the government are rejected on their first try. It can be an extremely frustrating process for people who find themselves dealing with an injury. On top of that, there is government paperwork, a lengthy process and often denial. Many people give up after the first try, assuming that that is the end of their road. However, that is not so.
How does the SSD Appeals process work?
If you decide to appeal your SSD claim, you must be patient and proactive. Acting quickly after a denial is crucial. First, you must appeal within 60 days of receiving the letter stating that your claim is denied. After you submit your appeal, you enter the “reconsideration stage.”
Reconsideration stage
The reconsideration stage is a phase in the appeals process where a specialized individual within the Social Security Disability Benefits office takes a closer look at your claim. They will review your case once more, including everything you have submitted to support your claim, such as medical documentation and testimony from your doctor.
Court hearing
Suppose your appeal is not successful after the reconsideration stage. Once that happens, you can request a hearing before an administrative judge who will also look at your case carefully, including all supporting documents, and will hear your testimony and evaluate your medical evidence. An impartial medical expert can testify in this hearing. Upon assessing all the evidence, the judge will decide and issue a written opinion.
If you are still not satisfied after the hearing, there are still additional options for additional appeals at higher levels, including a Social Security’s Appeals Council review and Federal Court review. Knowing that you have multiple options for appeal can make it easier to continue pursuing benefits after a denial.