Appealing SSDI Decisions in Southcentral PA
Getting the Social Security Administration (SSA) to pay disability benefits can be challenging, and many initial claims for benefits are denied. Do not give up. An appeal is often necessary to prove that your disability is real and that it prohibits you from maintaining gainful employment.
At Trinity Law, we represent clients throughout the SSA appeals process. Together, we will help you obtain the benefits you need to treat your disability, pay your bills and support your family.
4 Steps for Appealing Denied Claims
If your initial claim for Social Security Disability benefits has been denied, you have options. You can appeal an adverse decision in front of the SSA. The SSA has four levels of appeals:
- Reconsideration
- Administrative hearing
- Review by the SSA Appeals Council
- Filing an appeal in the Federal District Court
During the reconsideration process, an SSA employee who was not involved in the original decision will reconsider your application and determine whether you are eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. If your claim is denied after reconsideration, you can get a hearing in front of an administrative law judge (ALJ) for a hearing. Because an administrative hearing is akin to a courtroom trial, it is important to have a knowledgeable attorney present to protect your rights. During the hearing, the ALJ will review evidence of your disability, expert witness testimony may be introduced and you may be questioned by an SSA attorney. After the hearing, the ALJ will issue a decision regarding whether you are eligible for Social Security benefits.
If the ALJ rules against you, a third level of appeals — review by the SSA appeals council — is available. If the SSA appeals council refuses to review your case or affirms the ALJ’s decision, filing an appeal in Federal District Court is your final option.
Receive Help For Your Social Security Appeal
At Trinity Law, our lawyers stand by our clients during every step of the appeals process. We understand the difference Social Security benefits can make in our clients’ lives and we work hard to appeal denied claims and obtain the Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income benefits our clients are entitled to.
For assistance with applying for or appealing a Social Security Disability claim, contact Trinity Law today. For more than 30 years, we have been helping disabled individuals in York, Lancaster and the surrounding communities appeal their denied Social Security claims and obtain the benefits they are entitled to.
To schedule an initial appointment, use our online form or call us at 717-843-8046.