You Have 60 Days to File an Appeal

The Social Security Administration (SSA) gives you 60 days from the date on your denial letter to file an appeal. This time frame applies whether you're requesting a reconsideration, a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, or any other stage in the appeal process.

• The clock starts ticking from the date on the denial letter, not the day you receive it.
• The SSA assumes you received the letter five days after the date it was mailed, unless you can prove otherwise.
• If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, your appeal is due the next business day.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

If you don’t appeal within the 60-day window, you may have to start the application process over from scratch. In some cases, the SSA may allow a late appeal if you have a valid reason for missing the deadline (e.g., serious illness, natural disaster, or other unforeseen emergencies). You'll need to submit a statement explaining the delay, and the SSA will decide whether to accept your appeal.

How to Make Sure You Appeal on Time

• Read your denial letter carefully to confirm the exact deadline.
• Mark your calendar and aim to file your appeal as soon as possible.
• Gather any new medical evidence early, so you’re not rushed right before the deadline.
• Use the SSA’s online appeal portal at ssa.gov for quicker submissions and to avoid mail delays.