Why Disability Claims Get Denied

Common reasons for denial include:

• Lack of sufficient medical evidence
• Failure to follow prescribed treatment
• Income/assets exceeding SSI limits
• The SSA believes you can still work
• Incomplete or inaccurate application

Steps to Appeal a Disability Denial in New York

Step 1: Request Reconsideration

• Deadline: You must request within 60 days of receiving your denial letter.
• What happens: A new SSA reviewer will re-evaluate your case.
• Tip: Submit any new medical evidence and double-check that all forms are complete.

Step 2: Request a Hearing

• If reconsideration is denied, request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
• Timeline: Hearings may take several months to be scheduled.
• What to prepare: Medical updates, doctor's statements, and any witnesses who can testify about how your condition affects your daily life.

Step 3: Attend the Hearing

• The ALJ will ask questions about your medical condition, daily activities, and work history.
• Be honest and thorough. Dress appropriately and treat the hearing with the same seriousness as a court appearance.
  

Step 4: Appeals Council Review (if necessary)

• If the ALJ denies your appeal, you can request a review by the SSA’s Appeals Council.
• They may uphold the decision, reverse it, or send it back to the ALJ for another hearing.

Step 5: File a Federal Lawsuit

• As a last resort, you can file a lawsuit in federal district court.

Tips for a Successful Appeal

• Keep track of deadlines — missing one can result in a denial.
• Submit updated and complete medical records.
• Follow all treatment recommendations from your doctors.
• Stay in touch with the SSA about the status of your case.