Three Things To Do If Your Port Charlotte Social Security Disability Claim Has Been Denied
Bryan Greenberg
Social Security Disability
If you have been denied disability benefits, do not give up! You have a right to appeal the denial. Most disability claims are denied by the Social Security Administration (SSA). In fact, only about a third are approved on the first application. If you’ve been denied you have sixty days to appeal and still have a chance at getting the benefits you need. You will need a plan though to make sure that you don’t get denied again. Here are 3 things that you can do if your Port Charlotte social security disability income (SSDI) benefits.Speak With An Attorney
The best way that you can ensure that your SSDI claim does not get denied again is to speak with an attorney. Look for one with specialized skills and experience in appealing SSDI rejections. You need their expertise. Attorneys understand the application process, the appeals process, and will fight to help you get your benefits. Many people avoid working with an attorney because they think they will be really expensive. When you are filing a disability claim, it usually goes to follow that finances are tight. However, it is far more affordable than most people think, and many attorneys work on contingency.
File For SSDI Application Reconsideration
When your SSDI claim has been denied, you will receive a document with their reasons. If you disagree, then you will file for reconsideration. This will ensure the SSA reviews your case again. You have 60 days to file this appeal from when you receive this decision. There are exceptions to this rule, such as if you were in the hospital. Generally though, you want to act fast to make sure you don’t miss your window. There are two reasons for denial. The first is medical and the second is non-medical. You or your attorney will file your reconsideration with Form SSA-561. You can learn more about the process and get the form on the SSA website.
When you file a reconsideration, the SSA will do a review. Most of the time it includes medical professionals that were not initially part of the decision. In some cases, a reconsideration is all that is needed to activate your benefits. However, if your reconsideration is denied you still have options.
Schedule A Hearing With The Administrative Law Judges
If your case is reconsidered and denied, you will then have to make another appeal by asking for a hearing. The hearing will take place in front of administrative law judges. For hearings it is always best to work with an attorney because it is essentially a court case. During the hearing, you will be able to build a stronger case for your approval. Often you will present:
● New medical evidence showing the extent of your disability
● Testimony from medical professionals about your disability
● Statements from former employers, friends, and family
You will need to present these at least five days before your hearing. This is where an attorney can really help. They know exactly what kind of evidence is needed to prove your claim.
If your SSDI claim is denied, you have options. There are several avenues of appeal. Our team at All Injuries Law Firm can help. Our attorneys have decades of experience helping Port Charlotte residents qualify for SSDI. We’ve helped people successfully appeal denials that just seemed hopeless. We can do the same for you. Give us a call or chat with us right on our website. We’ll provide a free case review to help you understand your legal options and how we can help.