Steps to Appeal an SSDI Claim

When your SSDI claim is denied, you can appeal the decision through a formal process. The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows several levels of appeal, each with its own procedure. The process can be lengthy and complex, but staying organized and following each step carefully can increase your chances of overturning the decision.

Step 1: Request Reconsideration

The first step after your SSDI claim is denied is to request reconsideration. This means the SSA will review your claim again, but this time, it will be looked at by a different examiner.

• How to Request Reconsideration: You have 60 days from the date you receive the denial letter to request reconsideration. You can do this online, by phone, or in person at your local SSA office.
• What to Expect: The SSA will re-evaluate your medical evidence and the overall case. If you haven’t already submitted all relevant medical records or documentation, this is your chance to provide additional information.

Step 2: Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

If your reconsideration is denied, your next option is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is a critical stage where you have the opportunity to present your case in person and provide additional evidence.

• How to Request a Hearing: You will have 60 days from the date you receive the reconsideration denial to request a hearing. You can request the hearing online, by phone, or by mailing a written request.
• What to Expect: At the hearing, you (and your representative, if applicable) will present your case to the judge. The judge will review your medical evidence, and you may be asked questions about how your disability affects your daily life and ability to work. You may also have the opportunity to bring in new medical evidence or witness testimony.

Step 3: Appeal to the Appeals Council

If the ALJ denies your claim, the next step is to appeal to the SSA’s Appeals Council. The Appeals Council will review your case to determine if the ALJ made any errors in the decision-making process.

• How to Appeal to the Appeals Council: After the hearing, you will have 60 days from the date you receive the ALJ’s decision to request an appeal to the Appeals Council.
• What to Expect: The Appeals Council doesn’t typically hold a new hearing. Instead, they will review the records from your previous hearings and determine if any errors were made in the decision. If they find an error, they may send your case back to an ALJ for another hearing or issue a new decision.

Step 4: Federal Court Review

If the Appeals Council denies your claim, or if you disagree with their decision, you can appeal your case to federal court.

• How to Appeal to Federal Court: You will have 60 days from the date you receive the Appeals Council’s decision to file a lawsuit in a federal district court.
• What to Expect: In federal court, a judge will review the entire record of your case. You won’t need to appear in court unless the judge requests it, but you may want to consult with an attorney to ensure your case is presented effectively.

Tips for a Successful SSDI Appeal

The appeal process can be long, but there are ways to increase your chances of success:



• Gather New Medical Evidence: If your condition has worsened since your initial claim, gather updated medical records and have your doctor’s opinion on how your disability affects your ability to work.
• Be Organized: Keep copies of all correspondence, medical records, and evidence submitted to the SSA. Staying organized helps avoid delays and ensures you have all the necessary information.
• Seek Legal Representation: While you can handle the appeal process on your own, hiring an attorney can significantly improve your chances of success. A lawyer can help you present a stronger case, particularly at the hearing stage.
• Follow Deadlines: Pay attention to the deadlines for each appeal stage. Missing a deadline could result in your claim being dismissed, so be proactive.