When you receive a letter of denial of Social Security Disability Benefits, contact a Waukegan Social Security Lawyer immediately. The denial may be for a number of reasons and you do have the right to appeal the decision. In fact, there are four levels of appeals. The appeals process is complicated; the proper paperwork must be filed according to deadlines. Without the proper expert legal counsel, you may lose benefits you are entitled to.
Appeal Level 1: Reconsideration
When you have been denied Social Security Disability Benefits, you have sixty days to file for “Reconsideration”. This level of the process includes a complete unbiased review of your claim by an individual that is not affiliated with the first decision. All material and evidence originally submitted will be reviewed, and you have the opportunity to provide additional evidence. It is important that your Waukegan Social Security lawyer assist you in this stage to ensure that all information relevant to your case is submitted.
Appeal Level 2: Hearing
If you receive notice that your Reconsideration appeal did not produce the desired results, you may request a Hearing. An Administrative Law Judge within 75 miles of your home will preside over this hearing. This judge has no previous connection to the decision of your initial filing or the Reconsideration. You will be notified of the date, time and location of the hearing. It is in your best interest to have legal counsel with you when you attend the hearing. While reviewing, the Administrative Law Judge may request additional information and clarification on the information submitted previously. You and your legal counsel can bring witnesses, both personal and medical, to the hearing to help with the decision.
Appeal Level 3: Appeals Council
If the Administrative Law Judge finds against you, you can request a review by the Social Security’s Appeals Council. This council analyzes all requests for review, however they may deny your request if they believe the finding was correct. If your case is strong, the Appeals Council can choose to review your case, or send it back to an Administrative Law Judge for further review and decision.
Appeal Level 4: Federal Court
Filing a lawsuit in Federal District Court is the last level of the appeals process for Social Security benefits. It is imperative that you and your attorney are well prepared for this level of appeal and it is vital that you have an attorney by your side with significant experience at this level of the appeal process.
Filing for Social Security Disability benefits can be challenging; if you are denied benefits, the appeals process is even more daunting. It is vital that you have expert legal counsel assisting you with your case. A Waukegan Social Security lawyer can ensure that your case is presented in the most convincing way.
There are four levels of appeals for Social Security Benefits: Reconsideration, Hearing, Appeals Council, and Federal Court review. A Waukegan Social Security Lawyer has the expertise you need to succeed in your appeals for benefits. Schedule a consultation today with a lawyer if you have received notice you have been denied Social Security Benefits.
