What should you do when your SSDI claim is denied? It’s frustrating, especially after waiting so long, but denial doesn’t mean your case is over. Today, I’ll walk you through the steps you can take when you’re denied SSDI benefits. You’ll see how reconsideration, hearings, and written arguments at higher levels all play a role in keeping your claim on track. Check out this video to get a better understanding of the full appeal process and what to expect along the way.
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is rarely a quick or simple process. For most people, the first step is filing an application. This can be done online, by phone, in person, or by mailing in a paper form. Unfortunately, the majority of initial applications are denied. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s a quick guide to help you out:
1. File for reconsideration.
The first step after a denial is to file for reconsideration. This is a formal review of your application, often resulting in another denial. If reconsideration is also denied, the next option is to request a hearing. This hearing may take place by phone, video, or in person, and it involves presenting your case before an administrative law judge.
2. Appeal to the Appeals Council.
If the judge denies your claim after the hearing, you can appeal to the Appeals Council. This involves submitting a written argument explaining why the judge’s decision should be reviewed. While the Appeals Council rarely reverses decisions outright, it may send the case back to the same judge with instructions to reevaluate it.
3. Appeal to the state district court.
The next level of appeal after the Appeals Council is the federal district court in your state. This stage involves written legal arguments rather than live testimony or in-person appearances. When the court finds issues with the previous decision, it typically sends the case back to the same administrative law judge with instructions on how to fix the errors.
4. Take your case to the Court of Appeals.
If the district court denies your appeal, you can take your case to the Court of Appeals. In this example, cases from the Chicagoland area would go to the Seventh Circuit. These cases also rely on written arguments, though oral arguments may be held. Once again, success usually results in the case being remanded to the original judge for further review.
5. Go to the Supreme Court.
The final possible step is the Supreme Court. However, the court accepts only a very small number of Social Security cases each year. With tens of thousands of applications submitted annually, only a handful are chosen for review.
Appealing a denial is often the best course of action. Re-filing is sometimes recommended, but only under specific circumstances and typically with legal guidance. Knowing the available options at each stage can help you stay on course and give your case the attention it deserves.
If you need help understanding how this applies to your situation or navigating your SSDI case, you can contact us at (800) 419-7606. We’re here to help.
