Was Your Application Denied? We Fight To Get The Compensation You Deserve
Getting denied for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits is incredibly disheartening. You may be struggling financially as well as physically. You need a financial lifeline, and after paying into the Social Security system for so many years, you deserve to be able to rely on those benefits.
Thankfully, a denial isn’t the end of the road, but it’s important to pursue the right steps to turn your case around. At the Law Offices of Daniel Berger, we can help. Our lawyers have spent decades helping people with disabilities get the SSD benefits they deserve. We know this area of law backward and forward; it is the only area we’ve focused on since our firm’s founding in 1996.
What Is Reconsideration?
Reconsideration is the first formal step in the Social Security Disability (SSD) appeals process, offering a pivotal opportunity to reassess a denied claim. If your initial SSD application was denied, you’re in the majority – over 60% of initial applications face this hurdle. However, a denial is not the end of the road. Requesting reconsideration allows you to ask the Social Security Administration (SSA) to revisit the decision, making it an essential step in your continued pursuit of the benefits you deserve.
The Reconsideration Process
During reconsideration, a different examiner will conduct an in-depth review of your application. This involves a thorough paper assessment of all previously submitted medical evidence, alongside any new documentation you provide. Unlike the initial application, this stage does not require a personal appearance, streamlining the process. If you’ve undergone additional medical treatment, received a new diagnosis or escalated your treatment since your initial review, it’s crucial to include this information to bolster your case.
Reconsideration is not limited to initial denials; it also applies to decisions affecting current SSD benefits, such as termination or reduction. If your benefits are impacted due to a perceived lack of medical evidence, reconsideration offers a chance to demonstrate ongoing treatment for your disabling conditions.
How To Request Reconsideration
To file a reconsideration request, you must complete the appropriate forms, such as Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration), along with any necessary medical documentation. It’s vital to provide comprehensive and updated medical records, including any new diagnoses or treatment plans. You can submit these forms and documents either online or by mail, depending on your preference.
A Strict Timeline To Act
Timeliness is critical in this process. You have a 60-day window to request reconsideration after receiving a denial. Acting swiftly allows you to gather and submit comprehensive medical evidence, enhancing the potential for a successful outcome. This stage is your opportunity to address any gaps in your initial application, ensuring your claim is thoroughly evaluated without the need to restart the entire process. With careful preparation and timely action, reconsideration can be a vital step toward securing the benefits you need.
How Is It Different From The Initial Application Process?
In many ways, reconsideration is not very different from the initial application process. You will be relying on the same evidence as you originally filed, plus any additional evidence since that time. The doctor who examines your application will be different. The primary difference is that if you are denied reconsideration, you can appeal your application to an administrative law judge for a live hearing to make the case for your benefits. If the reconsideration again results in denial – which is common – we can help you take the next step in the appeals process, where we will be at the hearing before an administrative law judge to support you.
Act Quickly To Avoid Jeopardizing Your Benefits
You have 60 days after a denial to request reconsideration, but the sooner you do so, the better. Waiting until the last minute can deny you the opportunity to get additional medical evidence to support your application and limit the potential of the reconsideration, resulting in you receiving your benefits. Our disability attorneys can help you pursue swift reconsideration to maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
Why Legal Assistance Matters: The Role Of Your Attorney
Navigating the SSD appeals process can be daunting. An experienced attorney offers valuable guidance, ensuring comprehensive documentation and strategic case preparation. They advocate for you at hearings, presenting a compelling argument for your benefits. At the Law Offices of Daniel Berger, our exclusive focus on disability law since 1996 sets us apart. We provide personalized attention and work on a contingency basis – no fees unless we win. Our deep knowledge and dedication to securing maximum benefits make us a trusted choice for your legal needs.
Let Us Help You Overcome An SSD Denial
You shouldn’t have to deal with navigating the SSD appeals process alone. Let our lawyers help you get your case turned around. You can request a free consultation online or call 718-691-7475 to reach our offices in New York City and New Windsor.