Can New Englanders appeal their SSD benefits denial?

If you are unable to work due to a disability or illness, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. These benefits are designed to help support you and your family when you cannot earn a sufficient income. However, applying for these benefits is not easy. The process is complex and often confusing, and the majority of initial claims are denied. If your North Andover, Massachusetts, claim for Social Security Disability benefits was denied, you may feel frustrated and discouraged. But, you can appeal your Social Security Disability benefits denial. Though, you need to act quickly and follow the proper steps.

How the process works

The Social Security Administration has 4 levels of appeal for disability benefits: reconsideration, hearing by an administrative law judge, Appeals Council review and Federal court review.

When to appeal

You must go through each level in order, unless you are granted benefits at an earlier level. You need to file for an appeal within 60 days of the date of receiving the notice of denial. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to appeal and have to start over with a new application.

Reconsideration

The first level of appeal is called reconsideration. This is a complete review of your claim by a different examiner than the one who made the initial decision. The examiner will look at all the evidence you submitted with your original claim, including any new evidence you provide with your request for reconsideration.

To request reconsideration, you need to fill out two forms: Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration) and Form SSA-3441 (Disability Report – Appeal). You can find these forms online, request them by telephone and you can file your request for reconsideration online.

You should submit any new medical records, test results, doctor’s opinions or other evidence that supports your claim with your request for reconsideration. You should also explain why you disagree with the initial decision and why you believe you are disabled.

The SSA will send you a notice of their decision on your reconsideration within a few months. If they approve your claim, you will start receiving your benefits. If they deny your North Andover, Massachusetts, claim again, you can move on to the next level of appeal.