Denied disability benefits? Don't give up. Many initial denials are overturned on appeal. Understand the appeals process and how to strengthen your case.
Expert information to help you understand your rights and options
Most disability applications are denied initially, but many denials are overturned on appeal—especially at the hearing level. Understand the four appeal stages, strict deadlines you cannot miss, and why applicants with attorneys win at significantly higher rates.
After losing at the ALJ hearing, the Appeals Council is your next step—but approval rates drop to about 1-2%. The Council reviews for legal errors, not just disagreement with the decision. Learn when Appeals Council review makes sense, grounds for reversal, and when to pursue federal court instead.
The Administrative Law Judge hearing offers your best opportunity to win disability benefits—approval rates jump to 45-55% at this stage. Learn what happens at hearings, how to prepare testimony, the role of medical and vocational experts, and why attorney representation matters most here.
Federal district court provides judicial review of Social Security denials, but success requires showing SSA made legal errors or ignored substantial evidence. Learn the federal court process, strict filing deadlines, costs involved, and realistic expectations for this final appeal option.
Reconsideration is the first appeal stage after initial denial, with a 60-day deadline to file. A different examiner reviews your case, and you can submit new medical evidence. Learn how to file reconsideration, what new evidence helps most, and realistic approval rates at this stage.