If you have a disabling condition that makes it impossible for you to work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for a seemingly valid disability claim to end up being denied.
A denied disability benefits can be understandably frustrating. Unfortunately, this is never the end of the road. You can appeal a denied SSD claim. But how do you do this?
Appealing a denied claim
If your initial quest is unsuccessful, the SSA will inform you in writing with reasons why your application was refused. Once you receive this letter, you may appeal the decision as follows:
- Seek reconsideration: The first step you can take is to ask the SSA to reconsider their verdict. For this, you have 60 days from the date of the denial to petition for reconsideration.
- ALJ hearing: If the reconsideration is not successful, then you may want to petition for a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). Again, you have 60 days from the date of the denial of the reconsideration to request this hearing.
- Appeals Council: If the ALJ concludes that you are not eligible for disability benefits, and you believe that you do, then you have 60 days from the date of this decision to appeal to the Appeals Council.
- Federal court: Finally, should the Appeal Council decline to hear your claim or deny it, you may head to the federal court. In this case, you would have 60 days from the Appeals Council’s decision to appeal.
Asserting your rights
A denied SSD claim can be frustrating, to say the least. Understanding how the SSD appeals process works can help you safeguard your interests when appealing denied claims.