Step 1: Understand Why Your SSI Claim Was Denied

Before filing an appeal, it’s crucial to understand why your SSI claim was denied. The SSA will send you a Notice of Disapproved Claim, which will explain the reasons for the denial. Common reasons for SSI denials include:

• Insufficient medical evidence proving your disability.
• Failure to meet financial eligibility requirements (income or assets too high).
• Failure to follow up with SSA requests for additional information.
• Ineligibility due to work history or age.

Review the denial notice carefully to identify the specific issue and determine what additional evidence or information you may need for your appeal.

Step 2: Know the Time Limits for Filing an Appeal

You have 60 days from the date you receive the denial notice to file your appeal. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the opportunity to appeal the decision. It’s important to act quickly. You can file your appeal online, by phone, or by mail. If you’re unable to meet the deadline, contact the SSA immediately to request an extension.

Step 3: Decide Which Type of Appeal You Want to File

The SSA offers four levels of appeal for an SSI denial:

• Reconsideration: The first level of appeal, where SSA reviews your case again with new evidence if applicable.
• Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing where you present your case in person before an ALJ.
• Appeals Council Review: If you disagree with the ALJ’s decision, you can request a review by the SSA Appeals Council. The Appeals Council will review the case but won’t hold a hearing.
• Federal Court: If all other levels of appeal fail, you can file a lawsuit in federal court.

Step 4: Prepare Your Appeal

• Reconsideration: If you are filing for reconsideration, you need to submit any new evidence or information that was not previously considered by the SSA. This can include additional medical records, doctor’s opinions, or other relevant documents that support your case.
• Hearing: If your case proceeds to a hearing before an ALJ, prepare for the hearing by organizing all your medical records, statements from your doctors, and any other supporting evidence. You may also want to have witnesses who can speak about your condition and how it affects your ability to work.
• Be Detailed: Provide a clear and thorough explanation of why you believe the SSA made a mistake in denying your claim. For example, if the denial was due to lack of medical evidence, explain why you believe your condition qualifies for SSI.

Step 5: File the Appeal with the SSA

To file your appeal, you can:

• File Online: The quickest and easiest way is to file your appeal online through the SSA’s Appeals Portal at www.ssa.gov. You can track your appeal and receive notifications about your case.
• File by Mail: You can also file your appeal by completing the SSA-561-U2 (Request for Reconsideration) form and mailing it to your local SSA office. Make sure to keep copies of everything you send.
• File by Phone: If you need assistance, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to initiate the appeal process over the phone.

Step 6: Attend the Hearing if Necessary

If your appeal progresses to a hearing before an ALJ, it’s important to attend the hearing and be prepared to present your case. An ALJ will review all the evidence, listen to your testimony, and may ask you questions about your condition and how it affects your daily life. Be honest and clear in your responses.

• Bring Supporting Documents: Make sure to bring all updated medical records, employment history, and any new evidence to support your case.
• Consider Representation: Although you’re not required to have a lawyer for the hearing, many people choose to have legal representation to ensure the process goes smoothly and to help present their case effectively.

Step 7: Follow Up on Your Appeal

After you file your appeal, stay on top of your case. You can track the status of your appeal online through your SSA account. If additional information or documents are needed, make sure to submit them promptly to avoid delays.