1. Understand Why Your Claim Was Denied

Before starting your appeal, review the denial letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) carefully. It will explain:

• The specific reasons for denial, such as insufficient medical evidence, earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, or failure to meet eligibility criteria
• The deadline for filing your appeal, which is generally 60 days from the date you receive the denial notice

Understanding the reasons for your denial helps you address those issues effectively during the appeals process.

2. The Four Levels of the SSDI Appeals Process

A. Reconsideration

• What it is: The first step in the appeals process, where SSA reviews your claim again, including any new evidence you provide
• How to request it:
• File a Request for Reconsideration online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at your local SSA office
• Submit additional medical records or supporting documents that strengthen your case
• Timeframe: Reconsideration decisions generally take 2-4 months, depending on case complexity
  

B. Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

If your reconsideration is denied, the next step is to request a hearing:

• What it is: A formal hearing where you present your case before an ALJ who was not involved in previous decisions
• How to request it: File a Request for Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge within 60 days of your reconsideration denial
• What to prepare:
• Updated medical evidence
• Detailed explanations of your limitations
• Testimonies from doctors, family, or vocational experts, if available
• Hearing details: Hearings are usually held within 75 miles of your home, or by video conference if available
• Timeframe: It may take 12-18 months to get a hearing date due to SSA backlogs

C. Appeals Council Review

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the SSA Appeals Council:

• What it is: The Appeals Council reviews the ALJ’s decision to determine if there were legal or procedural errors
• How to request it: File a Request for Review of Hearing Decision/Order (Form HA-520) within 60 days of the ALJ decision
• Outcomes:
• The Council may uphold the ALJ’s decision
• Send it back for a new hearing
• Reverse the decision and award benefits
• Timeframe: Review can take 6 months to over a year

D. Federal Court Review

If the Appeals Council denies your request or upholds the ALJ’s decision, the final step is to file a lawsuit in U.S. District Court:

• What it is: A federal judge reviews your case for errors in the SSA’s handling of your claim
• How to file:
• File a civil action in your federal district court within 60 days of the Appeals Council’s decision
• This process generally requires an experienced Social Security disability attorney

3. Strengthen Your Appeal with Additional Evidence

To improve your chances of success during appeal:

• Gather new medical evidence since your initial application or reconsideration
• Request detailed statements from your doctors outlining how your condition limits your daily activities and ability to work
• Keep all appointments and follow treatment plans to demonstrate ongoing disability management
• Consider obtaining testimonies from vocational experts or rehabilitation counselors to support your claim

4. Consider Hiring a Disability Attorney

The appeals process can be complex. Hiring an experienced disability attorney can:

• Increase your chances of winning your appeal
• Help gather strong medical and vocational evidence
• Prepare you thoroughly for hearings and cross-examinations
• Represent you effectively before the ALJ or in federal court

Most SSDI attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if you win benefits.