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WHAT TO DO...IF SOCIAL SECURITY DENIES YOUR CLAIM

Social Security disability is just like any other insurance policy:  it denies more claims than it pays.  You must prove that you are disabled under the specific terms and conditions of the policy; in this case, under the Social Security regulations.

Most initial claims are denied under Step 5.  Basically, you are not able to perform your past work but you can perform some other work.

So, what to do?  The first thing is to file for "Reconsideration."  You have only 60 days to do this.  Ask Social Security to reconsider their decision. Be prepared for another denial.  At least 90 percent of these appeals will also be denials.  So, what to do?

File another appeal and request a hearing before a US Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).  At this stage, your claim is more likely to be approved. It will take a few months to get to the hearing.

You are always better off to bring a lawyer with you to the hearing.  In fact, if you show up unrepresented, the judge will recommend that you postpone to give you time to find a lawyer or representative.  The hearing will be rescheduled.

In short, when your disability claim is denied--you should file an appeal within the 60 days deadline.  Keep kicking your claim up the chain until it reaches an ALJ for a hearing.
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