What Should I Do If My SSI Disability Claim Is Denied?
SSI disability benefits provide a financial lifeline to people and families in need. They are important for people with severe injuries and other impairments. But, many claims are denied due to various reasons. If your SSI disability claim is denied, you should contact an Arkansas social security disability attorney, to discuss your case and determine if you have grounds to appeal the denial.
What should I do if my disability claim is denied?
- Reviewing and saving the disability letter from the SSA
The first step in appealing your disability denial is to request a copy of the letter from the SSA explaining why your application was denied. This is important because it lists why the SSA believes you are not disabled.
- Review the letter carefully.
Once you receive the letter from the SSA, take some time to review it carefully. Make a list of why the SSA believes you are not disabled and highlight any evidence you have that would disprove that reason. For example, if the SSA believes you are not disabled because you can take care of yourself, highlight any evidence you have that proves you need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing or dressing.
- Prepare your appeal
Once you have reviewed your SSA letter, take time to prepare an appeal. Start by drafting a letter outlining each reason your application was denied, and then use evidence to refute those reasons. Include any pertinent medical records, letters from doctors, or other documentation that will help your case.
- Submit your appeal
Once you have prepared your appeal, it is time to submit it to the SSA. You can deliver it in person, by mail, or online. You can submit a paper appeal online using the SSA’s online filing system.
If you submit your appeal by mail, you must send it to the address specified in the denial letter. The SSA will send you a notice acknowledging that your appeal has been received.
- Review your evidence
After you submit your appeal, the SSA will review your case. Depending on the nature of your appeal, the SSA may request more information and evidence.
The SSA will also send you a notice informing you that they have received additional information and that they have reviewed your case. They will then send you a notice informing you of the outcome of your appeal.
- Request a hearing
If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your appeal, you can request a hearing. This is a review of your case by an administrative law judge.
You must submit your request for a hearing within 60 days of the date on the letter notifying you of your appeal decision. You can submit a request for a hearing online, by mail, or in person. You can also call the office of your state’s agency or the department of health and human services to schedule a hearing.
