Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) can be difficult, but its rewards are often lifesaving. Maybe you were injured recently and need medical benefits. Or, you’ve developed a physical limitation that requires certain disability benefits. Some people even suffer from mental conditions that inhibit them from working and need supplemented income.
Whatever the case may be, you filled an SSD claim and were recently denied. This could have been something as simple as failing to cross a T and dot an I. However, you still need SSD benefits and you have no choice but to try again – which you can do. Not only do you have the right to reapply for SSD but you may even appeal a denied claim.
But what if your claim is denied for the second time? You can then request a disability hearing. During this hearing, you’ll stand before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). But, there’s more you should know:
When and where your hearing will take place
When appealing a denied SSD claim, you should receive a notice from the Social Security Administration (SSA) within 20 days in advance of your hearing time.
Typically, the hearing with the ALJ takes place in a hearings office local to your state, but many of the hearings have been held via video teleconference for the last several years. In any event, this is your chance to present your case in person, to a real human being.
Seeking legal help for your SSD denial
Depending on how complex your case is, you may have witness testimonies, you may be asked many questions and undergo an examination from a medical expert. Following that, the judge should explain the severity of your case and the issues that resulted in its denial.
Knowing your rights and contacting legal help to be by your side may benefit you during your disability appeal hearing.