If you have earned your social security benefits only to be denied access when you actually need them, it can feel like a slap in the face. We understand that you worked hard to earn these benefits and here at the O’Donnell Law Firm, we want to make sure that you get the benefits that you are legally entitled to when you need them. This process can be daunting, and ultimately every case is unique. If you would like personalized feedback based on your individual issue or case, you are welcome to contact the O’Donnell Law Firm to schedule a consultation.
Appealing a Social Security Disability Benefits Decision
If your initial application for disability benefits was denied by the SSA, try not to take it personally. You are not alone. The denial rates for first time applications is actually quite high. Appealing the decision automatically increases your odds of receiving benefits. Another smart step to take is consulting with a social security disability benefits attorney who can help you by ensuring that the SSA has all the information and evidence that they need to make a decision in your claim. An attorney can also ensure that no costly mistakes are made and that the application is complete and ready for review, avoiding any unnecessary delays due to a lack of appropriate documentation. An attorney can represent you throughout the process and appeal on your behalf.
The Social Security Disability Appeals Process
After receiving a denial on your initial benefits application, it’s important to act quickly and be proactive. You have 60 days from the date of their decision to file an appeal. You can request an appeal on the SSA website. Many people make the mistake of stopping there, and simply requesting an appeal without submitting any additional information. This is an important time to stop and determine the cause of your denial and make sure that you are remedying that with supplemental documentation, otherwise you will likely receive a similar outcome. This can also be a pivotal time to consult with an attorney to get a better understanding of your case and what evidence or documentation may be needed to secure an approval. For instance, your application may have been denied because you did not include a copy of your birth certificate, or they may need more medical documentation to determine that you are disabled, both of which can be remedied the second time around when the application is reconsidered.
Talk to a Pennsylvania Social Security Disability Benefits Attorney
If you have become disabled and are struggling to get the benefits that you are legally entitled to, the experienced personal injury and social security disability attorneys at the O’Donnell Law Firm are ready to help. Schedule a free initial consultation with the social security disability attorneys at the O’Donnell Law Offices serving clients in Kingston, Wilkes Barre, Hazleton and Pittston at 570-821-5717 or online today. There is no fee or costs until we win your case.