You can also download the form from the SSA’s website. Go to https://www. ssa. gov/forms/ and scroll down to “SSA-561-U2 Request for Reconsideration. " Click on the blue letters to download the form. You can fill it out online or print it out and fill it out by hand—you’ll still need to print it out to sign it.

For example, suppose your initial application only showed that you were unable to do the job you had most recently. Disability benefits are only available to people who are unable to do any work, so your application was denied because the SSA determined there was other work you could do. This is a common reason for denial! All you need in this case is information proving that you’re unable to do any work.

For example, if you didn’t originally submit all of your medical records, the additional medical records could support your appeal, especially if your condition has worsened since your initial application. It doesn’t hurt to go through the Blue Book (find it online at https://www. ssa. gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings. htm) and read what it says about your disability. That’s what the SSA is looking for, so try to get information that makes your case look as much like the description in the Blue Book as possible.

If you do have to stop at any time, you can save your application and go back to it later. It’s also a good idea to save frequently, just in case something happens to your internet connection.

For example, if you were denied because SSA determined you were able to perform other work, you might write: “When my arthritis began, I continued working. However, the pain and swelling increased to the point that I could no longer work as a secretary. I took a job as a greeter at a local department store, but within a year I was unable to stand due to arthritis in my knees and feet. " If you’re using the paper form, you’ll notice that there are only a few lines for you to write the reasons you disagree with the denial. Simply write “see attached” and type out your response on separate pages.

For example, you might write: “I’ve attached updated medical records that show my condition has worsened since I initially applied. There’s also a letter from my treating physician explaining that, in their medical opinion, I am unable to do any work. "

It’s usually best to choose the second option and have an in-person meeting so you can be involved in the process. That way, you can explain your condition to an SSA representative and answer any questions they might have directly. [9] X Research source

Enter your Social Security number, along with your claim number (if it’s different than your Social Security number). Check your denial letter—your claim number will be listed there. If you’re submitting paper forms, there’s also a space to sign your name at the bottom.

If you’re submitting paper forms, go to https://www. ssa. gov/forms/ and scroll down until you see “SSA-3441-BK Disability Report - Appeal. " Click on the blue letters to download the form.

If you’re mailing printed forms, send them to your local Social Security office. If you need the address, go to https://secure. ssa. gov/ICON/main. jsp and enter your ZIP code.

If you don’t have internet access or aren’t comfortable using the website, you can also call SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Requesting a hearing follows much the same process as filing a request for reconsideration. Be sure to include any information or documents you’ve acquired since your request for reconsideration, particularly if they’re directly related to the reason your claim was denied.

The SSA has both in-person and video hearings. When you get your first confirmation letter, you have the option to opt-out of a video hearing, but this usually isn’t a great idea—your hearing will typically be scheduled much more quickly if you allow for a video hearing. The hearing takes place at a location within 75 miles of your address. If you’re going to have trouble traveling to the location of the hearing, let the SSA know as soon as possible—there might be resources available to help you, including money for travel expenses. Video hearings take place at more locations than in-person hearings, so it’s more likely to be closer to where you live than an in-person hearing.

For example, if your doctor’s records are very sparse and don’t tell the whole story of your disability, you might want to get a letter from your doctor explaining the extent to which you’re disabled and unable to work. You might also have your doctor come to the hearing in person.

Let them know that you want them to be a witness at your hearing and go over what sorts of things they’ll probably be asked about. If you’ve hired a lawyer, they can help you with this—they’ll have a better idea of the types of questions the administrative law judge might ask. Make sure your witnesses are aware of the date, time, and location of the hearing.

Keep a copy of all the documents you submit for your own records. That way, you have a complete copy of everything in your Social Security disability file. If you request your hearing online, you can also upload digital copies of any new documents you want to submit to the administrative law judge. [19] X Trustworthy Source US Social Security Administration Independent U. S. government agency that administers Social Security and related information Go to source

It’s a good idea to show up 15 or 20 minutes early so you can find the room where you’re supposed to be and get settled before the time the hearing is supposed to start. If you’re traveling separately from your witnesses, arrange to meet them out front 15 to 20 minutes early so you can walk into the room together.

If you’ve brought witnesses, the judge will ask them questions as well. You may also have the opportunity to speak on your behalf or ask the SSA representative there any questions you might have.

If the administrative law judge denied your appeal, there are 2 additional levels of appeal. However, you don’t have a right to either of these levels, which means the court can decide not to hear your case. If you still want to appeal after your disability hearing, talk to a lawyer who specializes in Social Security disability appeals.

You still want to interview the attorney and make sure they’re the best for you, though. Choose someone you’re comfortable working with—keep in mind you’ll be having some frank discussions with them about the nature of your disability.

To find the closest legal aid society, search online for the name of your city or state along with the words “legal aid. " If you live near a law school, you might check there as well. Many law schools have clinics where law students help people with Social Security disability claims under the supervision of an expert disability lawyer.

These services are one of the best ways to find an attorney who specializes in Social Security disability law. You can also be certain that the lawyers listed here are licensed and in good standing with the state bar association.

Find out how much experience each attorney has with Social Security disability appeals, especially with cases similar to yours. Consider how the attorney makes you feel as well. Do you feel comfortable around them? Do you believe they’ll fight for you? Do you trust them? You’ll typically do best with an attorney who makes you feel safe and supported.

Any fee agreement has to be approved by the SSA anyway, so they shouldn’t have any problem drawing this up for you and explaining it.

If your representative isn’t an attorney, they also have to sign the form. If your representative is an attorney and they’re charging you a fee, that fee has to be approved by the SSA before they can take any money from you. Ask them for a copy of the form they submit to the SSA regarding their fees.