If your application for Social Security disability has been denied, you have appeal options after you receive a denial letter in the mail. Medical evidence that backs up your claim is necessary for approval of disability benefits. Prepare your appeal and get help to ensure that you are not denied on your next attempt for disability benefits.
Filing an Appeal
You have 60 days to file an appeal after receiving a denial for disability benefits, starting from the day that you receive notification of the denial. Begin the appeal process as soon as possible. The Social Security Administration has made the appeal form available on its website. You will have to fill out the appeal form and an appeal disability report that provides you another opportunity to supply information on your condition. If you need help with your appeal, contact the representative at the nearest Social Security office.
Medical Professionals
The appeal process is the time to submit more information about your condition. If your disability has worsened since you were denied benefits, add that information to your appeal. Seek additional medical opinion to add to your case. For instance, if your claim is a mental illness, obtain reports from a psychiatrist that show your inability to return to work. This step in the appeals process is called reconsideration. Even if your appeal is denied a second time you can request a hearing with the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review.
Legal Representation
Before you go to a hearing before an administrative law judge, hire a lawyer to help you. Prepare for your hearing by determining how your impairment has affected your ability to work. The answers to these questions should give the judge a picture of how your life has been affected by your disability. There are further appeals after the administrative law judge issues a ruling. The judge might give a decision that is partially favorable to you. The next step is the Appeals Council where your case will be thoroughly reviewed for errors. Many people stop after the first denial and never have an opportunity to present more information on their disability.
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