How A Social Security Request For Reconsideration Works

When you apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you might initially be denied. However, you will not want to give up when pursuing benefits and will need to undergo the appeal process. To be able to appeal the denial of your benefits, you will want to file a request for reconsideration.

Filing a Request

When you file a request for reconsideration, you will have a limited amount of time. Otherwise, you will be forced to start over and file a new application. Once you have filed the request for reconsideration, your application will be sent back to the SSA (Social Security Administration) so that it can be reviewed by another individual who did not originally review your SSD application. This is to make sure that the mistake that was made last time is not replicated.

How to Make Sure Your Appeal Is Successful

Before filing your request for reconsideration, you will need to make sure that there are no other issues that might have caused your application to be denied. For example, there might have been gaps in your treatment that may have caused an examiner to deny your request.

You may need to provide more evidence that you are injured and are doing everything you can to recover as quickly as possible. Then, it's more likely that your application will be approved and you will not have to undergo further proceedings. 

The Decision

After several months have passed, you will receive a letter that explains the decision. The letter will explain how the SSA reached the decision as well. If your request for reconsideration is not accepted, you will still be able to file further appeals in an effort to obtain disability benefits. You will need to contact your Social Security Disability attorney for help with this.

Make sure to take your time when completing each form so you do not make any mistakes. A Social Security attorney will be able to assist you in filling out your forms both so that it's easier to do and so that you can complete your forms more quickly.

For example, your attorney will help you gather documents that demonstrate that allow for the Disability Determination Services to understand the severity of your condition and accept your application. Then, you will be able to receive disability benefits that can be used to pay your bills while you focus on recovering so you can get back to work.

Contact a local Social Security Disability attorney to learn more.