Appealing Your Social Security Disability Claim
Not all Social Security claims are successful on the first try. In fact, some statistics show that as many as 80% of initial applications are denied. If your SSD claim has been denied, you may be feeling frustrated, discouraged, sad or even angry. You should know that getting the benefits you need and deserve is still possible if you appeal your denied claim.
The appeals process consists of several steps:
- Request for Hearing: In Pennsylvania (as in 10 other states), the next step is to file what is known as a Request for Hearing. In other states such as Ohio and West Virginia, you should file a Request for Reconsideration and if that is denied, you should file a Request for Hearing. This must be done within 60 days of the denial.
- Hearing before an Administrative Law judge (ALJ): At this stage in the process, a formal hearing is held in front of an Administrative Law Judge from the Social Security Administration. Success is very possible at this stage because you can appear before an independent judge and tell him or her about your disability in your own words.
- Appeals Council: If you are unsuccessful at you Social Security Disability hearing you may appeal your case to the Appeals Council.
- Federal District Court: If you are unsuccessful at the Appeals Council you may appeal your case to Federal District Court.
Choosing an Attorney for Your Appeal
Statistics clearly show that claimants that are represented by an attorney win their benefits far more often than those who try to handle matters on their own. You have the right to be represented by an attorney of your choice when filing an appeal. With years of experience, we can anticipate potential problems with an appeal, and can handle matters in a way that maximizes the chances of success. Contact us today for a free consultation.
