SSDI claims process

An SSDI attorney can guide you toward a successful result

The Social Security Administration is a big bureaucracy with complicated rules and regulations. The majority of initial claims are rejected. The process can be very slow. It's not unusual for someone filing a claim to quickly get frustrated and overwhelmed. Don't give up! Call or email Hansen Dirani & Associates Law Offices today for a free consultation. Let our experienced attorneys handle your claim for you. We have years of experience helping people get the results they need and deserve.

Several steps may be involved in the Social Security Disability claims process. Less than 30 percent of all applicants are approved immediately following the initial application. For most people seeking a disability claim, they have to appeal a decision after their claim is rejected.

Steps in the SSDI claims process

• Initial determination — During this first stage, your original claim is reviewed by a disability examiner, who works at the Disability Determination agency in your state. If your claim is rejected during the initial determination, which happens most of the time, you can move to the next stage if you choose to appeal.
• Reconsideration — During this stage, you are asking Social Security to "reconsider," or take another look at the decision to turn down your claim. Another disability examiner with the Disability Determination agency will look at your claim. In most cases, claims are rejected again. Don't give up. You still have options.
• Hearing with administrative law judge — When you appeal to an administrative law judge, you have a chance to take your case before the individual who will decide whether or not to accept your claim. In this stage, you have a better chance of success. Statistics show that more than half of the claims at this level are successful.
• Appeals Council — If you were unsuccessful before the administrative judge, you can appeal your case to the Appeals Council. This is a group that will review the administrative law judge's decision. The attorney submits written arguments.
• Federal courts — You can file a civil case in federal courts if the Appeals Council rejects your claim. You begin by filing in the U.S. District Court. You would only need to appeal if you lose the civil suit.

Contact a disability attorney

With potentially five stages of appeals, you would be wise to have an experienced disability attorney on your side who can help you navigate through this complex process. Call or email our law firm for a free consultation about your claim. There is no obligation. You don't pay us unless you win.

Hansen Dirani & Associates Law Offices. Dedicated to working for justice.