Most people only think of applying for Social Security Disability Insurance SSDI benefits after they acquire an injury or medical condition that leaves them incapable of continuing to work. The benefits available through the SSDI program can be a crucial Lifeline for those worried about paying their basic living expenses.
Unfortunately, quite a few SSDI applications result in denials rather than benefit approvals. The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a very strict standard for disability and rejects the application of anyone who does not meet those standards. Sometimes, people truly do not meet the necessary standards for the severity of their condition, the duration of their disability or the number of credits required to qualify. Other times, applicants believe they should have qualified for benefits.
When applicants believe that the SSA made an error in judgment by denying their benefits, they can potentially appeal that decision. There are four different stages of appeal available, and the first is a reconsideration.
Reconsideration is an internal review
Multiple types of appeals involve deferring to outside authorities, including administrative law judges. However, the first stage of appeal after failing to secure SSDI benefits is a reconsideration. Applicants should have information in their letters from the SSA clarifying why they didn’t receive approval. They can then address those issues before the reconsideration process starts.
During the reconsideration process, applicants submit corrections to their initial applications and possibly even additional medical records to the SSA. Those corrections and new documents then undergo review by a professional not involved in the original benefits claim.
If paperwork corrections and more evidence make it clear that someone likely qualifies for SSDI benefits, the reconsideration is successful. The applicant can receive benefits, possibly including backdated benefits beginning when they first became eligible for SSDI benefits after applying.
Although reconsideration can be a very quick process, it does require careful preparation. People need to understand why they didn’t receive benefits originally and ensure they follow the necessary procedures very carefully.
Gathering documentation and correcting paperwork are both key elements of the successful SSDI appeal. Understanding what happens during the appeals process can help people feel more comfortable continuing their pursuit of benefits after an initial denial.