Sometimes people get denied for Social Security benefits. There is an appeal process in place for applicants who were denied benefits by the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you are unhappy with their initial decision, you may request to have your case reevaluated. In order to do this, you have to file an official Social Security appeal form.
For the most part, you have 60 days to appeal a Social Security denial. DO NOT let this deadline pass; otherwise, you may risk forfeiting your right to file an appeal. No one wants to be denied these retirement benefits, so, it is important that you know what to do if it happens.
Where to Find a Social Security Appeal Form
You can find a Social Security appeal form online. You can fill out your information and submit your appeal from a computer. Alternatively, you can appeal your Social Security denial by calling the agency’s official number. You may also contact your local Social Security office directly and file your appeal through the agency.
What happens after I submit my Social Security appeal letter?
After you submit your request to appeal a Social Security denial, the documents are sent to the appropriate parties. If this is your first time appealing this decision, your appeal is sent to a case worker who was not involved in issuing your first determination. Then, you will receive a notice explaining whether your SS appeal was successful or not.
How long does a Social Security appeal take?
Once you file your request to appeal a Social Security denial, you will need to wait until your case is reevaluated. The Social Security Administration Office of Hearings and Appeals may be unable to hear your case quickly. They will try their best, but if the volume of appeals is high, then you may have to wait a little while to find out the disposition of your case. However, you can always check your Social Security appeal status online.
What to Do if You Are Denied Social Security Again
Receiving a second denial notice from the Social Security Administration doesn’t mean you are done. You can appeal again. Your next appeal goes up the ladder to an administrative law judge (ALJ). If you disagree with his or her decision, you can appeal again to the Social Security Appeals Council. If the council denies your appeal, you can send your request all the way a federal court to be reviewed. Many of these denials are based on incomplete or inaccurate documentation or applications.
