A good number of Social Security Disability (SSD) claims are denied during the first application. In fact, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA), nearly two in three disability claims are initially denied.
Fortunately, a denied claim is never the end of the road for you. You can appeal a denied disability claim. To successfully do so, however, you need to answer a couple of questions:
- What led to the denial of your disability claim?
- How much time do you have to appeal a denied disability claim?
Common reasons why the SSA denies disability claims
The SSA can deny your initial application for benefits on several grounds. These can include insufficient evidence, error while filing, failure to cooperate with SSA and failure to meet the income threshold.
If your disability claims are denied, you need to explore your appeals options. But first, you need to understand how the disability appeals process works.
Explaining the SSD appeals process
If your disability claim is denied, the SSA will inform you in writing how they arrived at the decision. Primarily, this will involve three stages:
Filing a request for a hearing appeal – Upon receiving the denial letter, you will have up to 60 days from the date indicated on the notice to file your appeal. During the appeal, your case will be reviewed by an administrative law judge (ALJ).
Appeals Council – If you convince the ALJ, the denial will be reversed. If the ALJ denies your claim, however, then you may take your case to the Appeals Council.
Federal court – In extremely rare cases, your case may be eligible for an appeal at the federal court.
If you are unable to work due to a long-term injury or a terminal condition, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. Find out how you can safeguard your rights and interests when appealing a denied SSD claim.