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In most cases, SSDI denials do not come faster than SSDI approvals. When you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, your application goes through a specific process. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), it can take anywhere from three to five months to receive a decision on your benefits claim.
When the SSA’s auditors initially receive your application, they will review your case to ensure that it meets all basic criteria and requirements. If certain aspects of your case are not backed up by evidence, your claim may be rejected as a technical denial.
If your application meets the SSA’s initial requirements, it is advanced to the next step and sent to the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in your state. Once a determination is made regarding your application for benefits, you will receive a letter in the mail. If you receive a denial letter and do not agree with the decision, you are entitled to file an appeal.
A Lawyer Can Help You File an Appeal If Your SSDI Application Is Denied
Receiving a denial of SSDI benefits can be frustrating and discouraging. Yet, it does not have to be the end of the road in your fight for SSDI compensation. If your SSDI denial was recent – within the last 60 days – you can file an appeal to have your application reviewed and reconsidered.
The Four-Level Appeals Process
The SSA has a four-level appeals process in place:
- Reconsideration
- A hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Review by the Appeals Council
- Federal Court review
When you request a reconsideration, your application will be reviewed by a new set of eyes. SSA administrators will review your existing evidence and any new evidence that you submit before deciding whether they agree or disagree with your claim’s original decision. If they deny your right to compensation, you can request a hearing by an ALJ.
When you request a hearing by an ALJ, your application will be reviewed by a judge who played no role in your case’s initial denial. The ALJ will hold a video or in-person hearing and, again, will review any new or existing evidence in your claim before deciding whether to approve your application. If the ALJ denies your right to benefits, you can request a review by the Appeals Council.
If the Appeals Council reviews your claim and agrees with your case’s denial, then they will send your case back to the ALJ. If your application is still denied, you can file a civil lawsuit for benefits by requesting a Federal Court review. A Social Security Disability lawyer can help you navigate each of the steps necessary to file an appeal.
How George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers Helps with Your Case
The SSDI appeals process can be long and complex, but you do not have to navigate it on your own. At George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers, our team can represent you at each stage of the appeals process. We can also help you with the process of applying for benefits if you have not yet received a decision regarding your eligibility.
Our team can also:
- Conduct a free review of your disability case
- Give you an explanation of your legal rights
- Review your application for accuracy, detail, and completion
- Read the reasoning behind the SSA’s denial, if necessary
- File the appropriate reconsideration and hearing forms, if necessary
- Offer services on a contingency-fee basis *
We will even visit you in your home or hospital room, if needed. We mean it when we say you can focus on getting better and leave the rest to us.
Work with a Lawyer Today on Your Claim for Benefits
If your application is denied, you do not have to give up hope of receiving the benefits you deserve. When you partner with a lawyer, they can help you get the financial assistance you need. Furthermore, our team works on a contingency-fee basis, meaning that you do not owe us any money until we secure benefits on your behalf.
Reach a team member at George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers by calling today.