The process of filing for Social Security disability insurance is complicated for residents of Ohio and across the country. After obtaining all the medical documentation and submitting all the forms, the last thing an applicant wants to hear is that they have been denied. However, if this is the case, it may be possible to appeal the Social Security Administration’s decision.
There are several things to keep in mind when preparing an appeal. Missing a deadline can waive your right to an appeal. An initial denial must be appealed in writing within 60 days of receiving the denial letter. The denial letter should clearly state any other deadlines and they should be adhered to.
Under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, the initial denial must provide a detailed explanation of why the claim was rejected. If the application was missing any information or anything was incomplete, this could be the difference between denial and approval.
One of the most common reasons for denial is lack of evidence. Medical conditions must result in the inability to work (any type of work) for at least a year. Non-medical evidence in the form of letters from colleagues and medical evidence in the form of written opinions from doctors can help support that claim.
If the initial appeal fails, there are still three more levels of appeals, including a hearing before an administrative judge, review by the Appeals Council and federal court review. At some point in the process, it may be a good option to work with a Social Security disability attorney in order to maximize the potential for a successful outcome.