Houston Social Security
Disability Attorney

Photo of David Dopkin
Photo of David Dopkin

The SSA appeal process, and how we can help you with it

On Behalf of | Sep 5, 2014 | Social Security Disability

When someone files for Social Security disability benefits, they may think that there’s no way that the Social Security Administration will deny their claim. In their mind, their condition or injury clearly warrants them receiving these important benefits. Unfortunately, this isn’t the way it works for every SSD applicant. Sometimes, the SSA denies the individual’s claim, and that person may think that they have no recourse.

However, there is a process for appealing your denied SSD application. This process can be a bit complex and confusing for the applicant, so let’s run through the basics of an appeal.

An SSD appeal can go through four stages: reconsideration, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing, an Appeals Council, and a review by a Federal Court. Reconsideration is an appeal where someone unrelated to your initial application looks over your request and makes a ruling. If that doesn’t work, you can go to an ALJ hearing. You will talk to a judge and your appeal will be heard. Should that fail, the next step is an Appeals Council, which will function similarly to a court case. Last but not lest, you could take your appeal to a federal district judge for review.

At each stage, there are numerous rules and regulations that must be followed. Our law firm can help you at each stage and ensure that your appeal is compliant and ready for the review process. We have the experience and knowledge to help you overcome the unfortunate decision the SSA initially handed you.