For people with disabilities, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can immensely help improve their lives. Regrettably, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not award this benefit to everyone who applies for it.
But getting a rejection does not mean that it is final. Remember that disability benefits are part of your government benefits. So, it is vital that you do everything that you can to ensure that you get what you deserve. To help you with it, here are a few alternative options that you can do once your SSDI gets denied.
File for reconsideration
After the SSA denies your application, they will send a document containing the reasons for rejection. If you disagree with it, you are free to file for reconsideration. Doing so will require them to review your application again.
The appeal must take place within two months or exactly 30 days upon receiving the first decision. However, there are times when it can take longer than 60 days if you can justify a reason. Additionally, reconsideration includes a right to representation. It means that you may need to have a social security disability attorney in Utah with you or a disability advocate to appeal the case.
Set up a hearing
Another option is to ask for a hearing with the administrative law judges (ALJs). The trials done under the ALJs should take place locally as the judge reviews the case. This will give them the chance to ask you a few questions about it.
Moreover, they will also ask attending medical experts and witnesses for more proof. Soon after, the judge will come with a verdict of either upholding the decision or overturning it in your favor.
Submit new evidence
Submitting new evidence is applicable if you ever experience any changes in your medical condition. It is helpful especially when you are applying for insurance or appealing for a reconsideration. Although it is a tedious process, it can help you especially if you are filing for an appeal. You can either submit on its own or attach it with your request for reconsideration.
Seek help from doctors
The SSA considers the doctor’s evaluations when assessing an application. So, if they initially declined your claim, you can provide more evidence to support it.
One way of doing so is by getting a few doctors’ testimonials to strengthen your case. You can ask doctors to complete a residual functional capacity form. You can also submit a revised document stating that your medical issue is getting worse. Your doctors can also state that they discovered a new condition in your system. Moreover, they can provide official descriptions of your situation to strengthen your case. This will help convince the SSA that your condition likely needs financial support.
These are a few options that you can consider if your SSDI application gets rejected. Regardless of how you appeal your decision, it is always best to contact your attorney for it. Your disability attorney will provide you with the options to strengthen your case.
