Review Your Social Security Disability File before Appealing Your Case

It isn’t uncommon for a Social Security Disability claim to be denied on the first go-around. If this happens to you, know that your case isn’t hopeless—you can still appeal the decision on the Social Security Disability benefits that you are entitled to. 

Many people believe that it’s better to file a new SSD application than to appeal an existing claim. This is not the case, because if you simply reapply your claim, it’s likely to be denied again if you don’t make the necessary changes. For this reason  is wiser to review your application, make the needed corrections, and appeal it.

Obtain your file

To begin the appeals process on your SSD claim, you’ll need to request a copy of your file from Social Security. Once you have your file, look at your medical records, Form SSA-831, and Form SSA-4268. Check these forms for errors. Noting any inaccuracies and missing information in a case file is an important step to take in preparing to appeal a denial. 

Reconsideration request

For the SSA to take a second look at your SSD benefits application, you must first submit a letter requesting the SSA to reconsider. Normally, you’ll have 60 days from the day you receive your denial notice to file your request. If you fail to file this request within 60 days, you’ll have to file a new application again. Don’t wait for this to happen, as it will most likely decrease your chance of approval.

You can increase your chances of success even further by hiring a disability lawyer to help you navigate the appeals process for your disability claim.

Sources:

Reviewing Your Social Security Disability File Before an Appeal, disabilitysecrets.com

Tips for Success: Reconsideration Stage, disabilitybenefitscenter.org

Social Security Disability Tips—How to Make Your Application Go Faster

Naturally, you will want the approval of your Social Security disability claim to come as fast as possible. This is especially important for those who have no source of income because of their injury. Applying for Social Security disability benefits can take a long time, and winning these benefits faster is crucial to avoid losing more money. Here are some suggestions on how you can speed up the disability process.

Social Security Disability: How Does the SSA Define a ‘Disability’?

It is said that the first and foremost duty of the government is to afford protection to its citizens. However, such a duty does not only imply protection against crime, social injustices, and other dire threats, but also provides assistance in times of difficulties, particularly in the case of people who are or who become disabled. The Social Security Administration (SSA) and its Social Security Disability programs are geared toward financially assisting people with disabilities in coping with and managing their daily lives.