Principal Attorney
Has your application for Social Security disability benefits been denied? It can be disheartening, but do not lose hope! Many more people have success on the various levels of appeal after the initial denial. The first step is to file a Request for Reconsideration. Here’s how you can do that.
Request for Reconsideration Process
The easiest way to file a Request for Reconsideration is by doing so online. If your initial application is denied, do not wait. Go to The Social Security Administration’s website. You will not need to fill out any forms or go to the post office to mail out any forms. It can be completely done online. You have 60 days from the date you receive your initial notice of denial to file your Request for Reconsideration. Appeal as soon as possible because if you fail to submit your Request for Reconsideration before the 60-day clock runs out, then the Social Security Administration (SSA) will require that you start the disability benefits application process all over again. This is not only frustrating, but a big waste of your time.
Navigate to the SSA website and click on “Disability.” You will then need to scroll down the page and find a blue box that reads “Learn More or Appeal a Decision.” This will take you to another page where you will need to scroll a little bit down to a blue box that reads “Reconsideration.” Click on “Reconsideration.” If you filed an SSDI and SSI claim, then you will have to click on the blue box that reads “Request Medical Reconsideration.” You will need to complete the form that comes up in full. Read the instructions and click on the box that reads “Start a New Appeal.”
Disability Determination Services (DDS) will be tasked with reviewing your Request for Reconsideration. A state-run agency, DDC is tasked with reviewing applications and appeals for both SSDI and SSI benefits. Yes, this means that the same agency that initially reviewed your application will also be tasked with reviewing your Request for Reconsideration. The difference is, however, that it will be a new person reviewing your application and you will be able to submit additional medical evidence for review at the Request for Reconsideration level. Submitting additional medical evidence can be crucial for increasing your chances of succeeding at the Request for Reconsideration level. After all, if another person from DDS is reviewing the exact same application you submitted initially, it will not improve your chances of succeeding on appeal that much.
Los Angeles Social Security Disability Attorney
Applying for disability benefits can feel like a never-ending need to complete forms, gather medical records, and more logistical hurdles to jump over. You don’t have to go through this alone! The team at Disability Advocates is here to help you through the entire process. Contact us today.
