SSDI Appeals
Your Social Security Disability claim was denied. Here’s how to fight back — and win.
Was your Social Security Disability application denied? Don’t get discouraged. Many people who now receive SSDI or SSI benefits were denied the first time and won on appeal.
Dane Shulman Associates helps people across Massachusetts appeal denied disability claims. Call 617-298-2500 for a free consultation.
Why so many claims are denied
The Social Security system often denies claims on the first pass. One small mistake — a missing form, an incomplete medical record, a misunderstanding of your work history — can sink a claim even when you clearly qualify. Denials also discourage people from appealing, which is why so many valid claims are never pursued.
The four levels of appeal
1. Reconsideration. A new examiner reviews your claim, along with any new evidence you submit.
2. Hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing where you and your attorney present your case in person. For many people, this is the best chance of winning.
3. Appeals Council review. If the judge denies your claim, the Appeals Council can review the decision for errors.
4. Federal court. As a final step, you can file a case in U.S. District Court.
Deadlines matter
You generally have 60 days from the date you receive a denial to request the next level of appeal. Miss the deadline and you may have to start over with a new application — potentially losing months or years of back benefits. Contact us as soon as you receive a denial.
Building a stronger case on appeal
We take a comprehensive look at your claim to find what went wrong and fix it. That typically means:
- Gathering updated medical records and treating-physician opinions
- Documenting how your condition limits your ability to work
- Addressing the specific reasons for the denial
- Preparing you for the hearing and representing you before the judge
If you have a serious injury that will keep you out of work for at least 12 months, or a physical or mental illness that prevents you from holding a full-time job, you may be eligible.
Recovering back benefits
If you win on appeal, you may recover back benefits — the payments you would have received if your claim had been approved the first time. That’s another reason to appeal rather than reapply.
No benefits, no fee
We handle disability appeals on contingency. You pay nothing unless you receive benefits. Attorney fees are limited by federal law, approved by the Social Security Administration, and typically paid from past-due benefits.
FAQ
Was your disability claim denied? Let’s talk.
Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win. The sooner we start, the more we can do.