Understand Why Your SSDI Claim Was Denied

The first step is to carefully review your denial letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Common reasons for denial include:

• Insufficient medical evidence
• Failure to prove your condition prevents you from working
• Not meeting the work credit requirements for SSDI
• Incomplete or inaccurate application
• Lack of cooperation (missing doctor appointments or SSA requests)

Understanding the reason for denial helps you know what to correct or strengthen in your appeal.

Act Quickly – You Have 60 Days to File an Appeal

You must begin your appeal within 60 days of receiving the denial notice. Waiting too long may cause you to lose your right to appeal.

Appeals go through multiple stages. Here are the key steps:

The Four Levels of SSDI Appeals

Level 1: Reconsideration

• A new SSA reviewer will re-examine your entire claim
• You can submit additional medical evidence
• Takes a few weeks to several months
• Many claims are still denied at this stage—but don’t stop here

Level 2: Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

• You appear before a judge to present your case
• You can testify, submit new evidence, and bring witnesses
• This is often where claims are approved, especially with legal representation
• Hearings are held locally or by video conference

Level 3: Appeals Council Review

• If denied at the hearing, you can request a review from the SSA Appeals Council
• They may uphold, reverse, or send the case back for a new hearing

Level 4: Federal Court

• As a final step, you can file a lawsuit in federal court
• This step usually requires an experienced disability attorney

Strengthen Your Appeal With New Evidence

To succeed in your appeal, you’ll need more than your original application. Strengthen your case by:

• Submitting updated medical records and test results
• Getting detailed letters from your doctors explaining your limitations
• Providing documentation of how your condition affects your daily activities and ability to work
• Including any new diagnoses, treatments, or hospitalizations

The more specific and up-to-date your evidence is, the better.

Consider Getting Legal Help

While not required, working with a disability lawyer can significantly increase your chances of success—especially at the hearing level. An attorney will:

• Help build your strongest case
• Cross-examine vocational or medical experts
• Present your testimony in a clear, compelling way
• Navigate complex rules and deadlines