If you consider yourself to be disabled but you are struggling to successfully gain Social Security disability (SSDI/SSI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it is possible that you feel frustrated and defeated. After one or more denials, you may simply feel like giving up on the process altogether.
However, you must be persistent. A surprisingly high amount of people have their disability benefits denied after their first application, but many people go on to be successful when they make an appeal. Your benefits application may have been denied for an arbitrary reason, such as a mistake on your medical reports or missing information. The following are some things you can do to appeal an application denial with confidence.
Ask for a reconsideration
Usually, it is possible for all those who have been denied social security disability benefits to request an appeal within 60 days of the decision. You can request an appeal online. You can either request a medical reconsideration or a nonmedical reconsideration, based on the circumstances.
Request a hearing
If you are not happy with the reconsideration outcome, you can request a medical or nonmedical hearing. This hearing should be held within 75 miles of your home.
Request a review
If your application is still denied, you can request a review from the appeals council. This request may be denied, and you should be able to give good reasons for your request.
If you are worried about your financial future as a result of your benefits application being denied, you should take the time to understand your legal rights in California.