Appealing a Denied SSDI Claim
The knowledgeable Social Security Disability lawyers at Social Security Disability Attorney Group in Los Angeles are contacted daily by individuals shocked to learn their request for benefits was denied. Sadly, more disability claims are denied than approved. As a result, many disabled people are left struggling to make ends meet.
If you were denied Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and believe you were wrongly denied, you can appeal the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) decision. In fact, your chances of collecting benefits are considerably higher if you go through the appeal process. It’s important to note: if you were denied benefits, do not stop medical treatment!
SSDI Lawyers in Los Angeles
At Social Security Disability Attorney Group in Los Angeles, the aggressive SSDI attorneys in our group are often asked, “What steps must be taken to appeal a claim?” The first step to appealing a denied application is to request a reconsideration. Once a request for reconsideration form has been filed, an individual can typically expect to hear a decision within eight weeks.
Please keep in mind; the time it takes for the SSA to reach a decision on a request for reconsideration can vary depending on the circumstances surrounding a case. For example, an individual suffering from a heart attack may have their decision delayed several months in order to evaluate the residual effects of the trauma.
Disability Attorneys in Los Angeles
The second step to appealing a denied SSDI application is to request an administrative law judge (ALJ) hearing. To request a hearing, a Request for Hearing by Administrative Law Judge form (HA-501) must be completed and submitted either online or in person at a local SSA office. The HA-501 form can also be mailed to the SSA.
During an ALJ hearing, you will be given the opportunity to argue why you deserve benefits. In most cases, the hearing is not held in a courtroom, but in a conference room.
If your disability benefits application is denied by the ALJ hearing, you can appeal the decision with the Social Security Appeals Council. The request for review must be done in writing and sent to or brought to your local SSA office. You only have 60 days from the ALJ decision to request a review of the hearing, so it’s imperative you act quickly when submitting an appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council.
Finally, if you are denied at the Appeals Council level, you may file a civil complaint against the SSA. Please note: the SSA cannot help you file a civil complaint. Either you or your lawyer must file a civil complaint with the proper court.
Los Angeles SSDI Lawyer
As you can see, the process of appealing a denied SSDI application can be very complicated and oftentimes, confusing. There’s no need to worry, however. Look to a competent disability lawyer at Social Security Disability Attorney Group in Los Angeles to assist you with every step of the appeal process. With their expert legal help, you are much more likely to get a favorable result than if you were to handle the process on your own or with the guidance of an inexperienced attorney.
Los Angeles Disability Attorney
For many years throughout the city and surrounding areas, the ethical Social Security Disability lawyers at Social Security Disability Attorney Group in Los Angeles have helped individuals suffering from physical and mental impairments get the benefits they need to move towards a brighter future. Why risk losing your right to much needed benefits? Call our group today to learn how we can help.
When you call 213-271-1519 we will connect you with a top disability attorney in in the area and arrange a consultation for you to discuss the details of your case privately. The initial consultation is free and all of the knowledgeable SSDI lawyers in our group work on a no recovery, no fee basis.