What To Do Next After A Social Security Denial

Being approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is difficult. The application is lengthy, and it takes a long time to hear back from the Social Security Administration (SSA). To make matters worse, many applicants are denied the benefits they need. What you do after you receive that denial letter from the SSA matters a lot. Read on and follow these below tips.

Determine the Reason

The denial letter from the SSA will list one or more reasons for turning down your application. In many cases, it may be difficult to figure out what the information means. The reason might be clear to you, but you might not understand how you are supposed to rectify the situation. This is when a Social Security lawyer can help. They will review your letter and help you understand why your application was denied.

Don't Miss the Deadline

The SSA allows those turned down to request an appeal hearing. Claimants have a relatively short time to contact the SSA and request a hearing. If you don't request the hearing in time, you might have to begin the application process again and that includes the long wait for the results. If you had a good reason for missing the deadline, though, the SSA might allow you an extension. An emergency or illness are good reasons to miss the deadline. Contact the SSA if you miss the deadline and ask for an extension.

Gather Evidence

Claimants are allowed to present evidence at the appeal hearing. In many cases, applicants have been turned down because they did not include enough medical proof of their condition when they applied. This is your chance to show the hearing officer your medical records, letters from your doctor, and other proof of your condition. You also can show that your condition has become worse or that you have developed additional medical problems while you were waiting on the SSA to approve your application.

Speak to a Lawyer

Social Security lawyers are approved by the SSA to work with claimants during their appeal hearings. They are paid using a contingency fee arrangement. The legal fees to pay your lawyer are deducted from your back pay once your claim is approved. If your claim is not approved, you don't have to pay the lawyer. The fees are a percentage of the back pay, and the terms of the agreement must be approved by the SSA. This is an excellent way to get the help you need with your case that is affordable. Speak to a Social Security attorney to find out more.

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