If your Social Security Disability (SSD) claim has been denied, it’s important to understand that you have options for appealing the decision. The team at Osterhout Berger Daley is experienced in assisting individuals with their denied SSD and SSI claims.
Reasons for Denied Claims
Understanding why your claim was denied can help you better prepare for the appeals process. Common reasons for denied SSD and SSI claims include:
- Insufficient medical evidence
- Incomplete or inaccurate application information
- Failure to follow prescribed treatment
- A determination that your condition is not severe enough
- A belief that you can still perform some type of work
Appealing a Denied Claim
The appeals process for SSD and SSI claims generally involves the following steps:
- Request for Reconsideration: You must file a request for reconsideration within 60 days of receiving your denial notice. This involves a review of your claim by a different claims examiner.
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ. This is an opportunity to present new evidence and testimony to support your claim.
- Appeals Council Review: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the Social Security Appeals Council. The Council may either review your case, send it back to an ALJ for another hearing, or deny your request for review.
- Federal Court Appeal: If the Appeals Council denies your request for review, you can file a lawsuit in federal court.
How Osterhout Berger Daley Can Help
Our experienced attorneys at Osterhout Berger Daley can guide you through each step of the appeals process. We will:
- Review your denial notice to determine the reasons for denial.
- Gather additional evidence and documentation to support your claim.
- Prepare you for the ALJ hearing and represent you during the process.
- Assist with the Appeals Council review and, if necessary, file a lawsuit in federal court.