Receiving a denial for your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim can be frustrating, but it doesn’t end your case. If you’ve been denied SSDI benefits in California, you still have options to appeal the decision. Knowing what steps to take next can help improve your chances of success.
Review the reason for the denial
When the SSA denies your SSDI claim, the agency will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons for denial include insufficient medical evidence, failure to meet work history requirements, or the SSA determining that you can still perform some type of work.
Understanding the specific reason for the denial is necessary for moving forward with your case. If the SSA denied you due to a lack of evidence, you can provide more documentation or medical records to support your claim.
Request a reconsideration
After receiving a denial, the next step is to request a reconsideration. A new Social Security representative will review your case. The reconsideration process may take a few months, and the review will look at any new evidence you provide. If the SSA denies you again, you can appeal further.
File a hearing request
If reconsideration doesn’t lead to approval, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). This process is more formal and may take several months, sometimes over a year, due to backlogs. At the hearing, you will present your case with the help of a judge, and you can bring witnesses, such as medical professionals, to support your claim.
In California, you must meet strict deadlines for appeals. You have 60 days to file a request for reconsideration and up to 60 days to request a hearing.
Understanding how to appeal an SSDI claim denial can help you get through the process more easily.
