The Social Security Administration (SSA) receives a constant stream of incoming applications for disability benefits. People in a variety of different challenging medical circumstances request Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
Some of those applicants have compelling medical evidence and get approved quickly when they apply. However, many people receive rejection notices rather than approval letters when they request SSDI benefits. Denied applicants have the option of appealing, which can ultimately result in the SSA granting them the benefits they require to cover basic expenses.
What are the stages of the appeals process for SSDI applicants?
Reconsideration
Sometimes, human error is the reason for a rejected SSDI application. Other times, the personal bias of the professional reviewing the claim influences the determination made. After a rejected application, the person seeking benefits can initiate an appeal.
The first step in the appeals process is a reconsideration. Reconsideration is an internal procedure that involves a different professional from the SSA reviewing the application, any corrections to the documents submitted and any additional medical evidence provided by the applicant. Reconsideration can occur relatively quickly and is successful in a small portion of cases.
An appeals hearing
When people talk about SSDI appeals, they often specifically refer to hearings in front of administrative law judges. The applicant and their attorney can gather additional medical evidence to present to the judge.
In some cases, they may bring in medical professionals and other experts to testify about the worker’s condition and their eligibility for benefits. It often takes months of waiting to secure a hearing in front of an administrative law judge, but applicants do sometimes secure benefits because a judges rules int their favor.
Additional appeals
Those who do not secure a favorable outcome after a hearing in front of a judge have two more appeal options available. They can request a hearing with the Appeals Council that reviews contested SSDI claims. If that process is also unsuccessful, then the applicant may have the option of filing a lawsuit in federal court.
Learning about the SSDI benefits appeals process and having legal guidance while navigating each stage of the process may increase an applicant’s chances of success.
