Social Security Disability: What Do You Do When Your Claim is Denied?

Social Security Disability: What Do You Do When Your Claim is Denied?

You turned in all your paperwork and waited patiently to hear back from the Social Security Administration (SSA), but the news you got was surprising. Your doctor has told you that you can no longer work in your field, but somehow your social security disability claim has been denied.

Approximately 65% of initial Social Security Disability claims are denied. If yours is among them, what can you do next?

Do You Need Representation for a Social Security Disability Appeal?

The appeals process does not require a legal representative, but let’s be honest. Appealing a government decision can be a tricky, confusing quest. A Tampa Social Security Disability Attorney may be able to steer you through the process by helping you get all the right papers and ensuring you meet the federal guidelines for disability. Remember, a skilled, knowledgeable Social Security Disability Attorney knows the ins and outs of the appeals process and helps you work towards a positive outcome.

How to Appeal a Social Security Disability Claim

Whenever you receive a letter from a government organization, whether it be the Social Security Administration or the IRS, it should clearly mention how to appeal a decision you disagree with and provide you with a deadline to do so. Because of the latter, it can be helpful to speak with a Social Security Disability Attorney as soon as your claim is rejected so your lawyer has adequate time to help you prepare your appeal.

The Social Security appeals process can be daunting. Thankfully, the SSA does provide a reason for denying a claim. This information can be helpful in determining whether it will be beneficial to appeal the SSA’s decision.

If it makes sense to appeal the SSA’s decision, your first step is to decide whether you’d like assistance from a Social Security Disability lawyer. If you do, it’s important to see one as soon as possible to get the ball rolling within the prescribed timeline. If you prefer to continue without the expertise of a lawyer, then it is worthwhile to reread everything very closely to ensure you are following the proper steps and adhering to the given deadlines.

The Disability Reconsideration Review results in a negative outcome for 85% of applicants unless there is evidence of substantial medical deterioration or further proof of disability. However, rejection at this stage leads to an Administrative Law Judge hearing.

What Happens During an Administrative Law Judge Review?

The second level of the appeal process in most states, including Florida, is the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) review. While it may sound intimidating, it can actually be beneficial to have a hearing in front of a live person rather than dealing with more paperwork and committees you’ll never see.

You have a better chance of overturning the original SSA decision at an ALJ hearing than in the initial appeal. Unfortunately, it can take a while to get a hearing. If you haven’t already hired a Social Security Disability Lawyer, this may be a good time to consider adding a knowledgeable partner to your team. Not only can an attorney make sure you have all the paperwork you need to present to a judge ready, they can help you prepare for the actual hearing by discussing the types of questions the judge will ask you. Their expertise can help you approach your ALJ hearing calmly and with more information.

A Tampa Social Security Disability Attorney Can Help You

If dealing with the legal morass of appealing your Social Security Disability claim has you confused, speaking with a Tampa Social Security Disability Attorney should be your next step. A reputable Tampa Social Security Disability Attorney will help you better understand the process and increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Dealing with the Social Security Administration shouldn’t be a burden. Let a knowledgeable Tampa Social Security Disability Attorney work with you

For those who have not yet applied, a Tampa Social Security Disability Attorney can help you get your Social Security Disability claim started on the right foot. With almost 65% of initial claims denied, it is helpful to have someone who knows the process by your side to help achieve a positive outcome.