Disability Benefits Appeals Process
Q. My request for Social Security Disability benefits has been denied. How do I appeal?
A. Do not despair if your application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) application is denied. Less than half of all claims are approved on the first submission. Persistence is one key to successfully reaching a favorable conclusion. The help of the Social Security disability lawyers at Schwartzapfel Partners can also greatly increase your chances.
The Social Security lawyers of Schwartzapfel Partners P.C. in New York can help you with your claim. Call us today at (800) 966-4999 or fill out the form to the right of the page for immediate attention to your case.
With more than 150 years of combined experience, our attorneys are well-prepared to handle all your legal needs. We have a 98 percent success rate, and we have obtained millions of dollars in compensation and benefits that our clients need and deserve. We will fight for you!
The Steps of Your Appeal
For your appeal to be successful, you must meet the strict deadlines imposed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you miss a deadline, your claim is automatically dismissed. Major deadlines in the appeal process include:
- Request for Reconsideration: The Appeal Request form and Appeal Disability Report must be delivered within 60 days of the date of the letter from SSA advising of the denial decision. Reconsideration involves a complete review of your claim by someone who did not take part in the first decision. Social Security officials will look at all the evidence submitted when the original decision was made, plus any new evidence. A Social Security disability lawyer from Schwartzapfel Partners can help you collect evidence that could make a crucial difference in the decision.
- Administrative Hearing: If you disagree with the reconsideration decision, you may request a hearing. The Administrative Hearing is held before a judge who will hear evidence and review documents submitted in support of your claim. The Administrative Hearing must be requested within 60 days of the denial of your Request for Reconsideration. The judge may ask you for more evidence and to clarify information about your claim. A Social Security disability lawyer from Schwartzapfel Partners can help you prepare for this hearing, line up witnesses to testify on your behalf and explain to the judge why you deserve benefits.
- Appeals Council Review: Should the administrative judge uphold the denial of benefits, you have 60 days to petition for a hearing by the Social Security Appeals Council. If the Appeals Council decides to review your case, it will either decide your case itself or return it to an administrative law judge for further review. A Social Security disability lawyer from Schwartzapfel Partners can prepare your documents and legal arguments for this crucial review.
- Federal District Court: If you disagree with the Appeals Council’s decision, or if the Appeals Council decides not to review your case, you may file a lawsuit in U.S. District Court. The help of a Social Security disability attorney from Schwartzapfel Partners can make all the difference as you navigate the complex procedures for filing a federal lawsuit.
You Need Schwartzapfel Partners!
Tackling the SSA appeal process can be stressful. Turn to the New York attorneys of Schwartzapfel Partners P.C. for help. We will focus on one step of the appeals process at a time and ensure you have all the necessary paperwork completed and submitted within the deadlines. We will be at your side, fighting for you, every step of the way.
With more than 150 years of combined experience and a 98 percent success rate, our Social Security disability attorneys are well-prepared to handle all your legal needs. Call us at (800) 966-4999 or fill out our online contact form for a free case evaluation.
