Helping Indiana Residents Navigate The SSD Benefits Appeals Process
When you file your application for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, it goes to the Disability Determination Bureau, where your application and medical reports are reviewed. The people there grant benefits to 30 percent of applicants or less. Some who receive denials give up. You should not.
There is an appeals process. At McKown & Myers, LLP, our attorneys know the process from front to back, because we have been handling these matters for more than 30 years. We are proud of the work we have done to help disabled people throughout Indiana get the Social Security benefits they need to live comfortably.
Request For Reconsideration
Reconsideration is the first step in the appeals process. Interestingly, many Social Security attorneys do not handle this part of the process, and for good reason. The Disability Determination Bureau grants benefits in only 10 percent or less of reconsiderations.
We do not let the low percentage of approvals deter us. If we can make your claim one of the 10 percent that is accepted, it will save you a lot of time and stress.
Disability Hearings
If your request for reconsideration results in another denial, we will request a disability hearing in front of an administrative law judge (ALJ). These hearings are complex, but we have handled hundreds of them. We know how to gather and present the necessary information to the judge to prove that you need the requested benefits.
When possible, we will push for an expedited hearing or an on-the-record decision to get you through the system quickly.
Appeals Council
Sometimes, despite applicants’ best efforts, claims are still denied at the ALJ disability hearing level. If it is in your best interest, we will request a review by the Appeals Council for a final attempt at obtaining the benefits you deserve. In other cases, we may advise you to submit a new application and go through the process again.
Our Social Security law firm never gives up on a client. If you have a disability and are denied SSD or SSI benefits, we will fight for you through the very end, advising you along the way on questions like whether you can work or how you should cover your medical care costs.
Contact Our Experienced Attorneys
For a free initial case evaluation, call 765-668-7531 or reach out to us online. We represent clients in the Marion, Fort Wayne and Valparaiso, Indiana, areas.