Social Security disability can limit you from working to earn a living. You can file for disability benefits to replace part of your income. The monetary benefits help you as you undergo the medical process. However, to qualify for the benefits, you must have stayed in the disabled condition for about 12 months, or the condition must be severe enough that it could cause death. This article will help you to understand the various steps to take when filing for disability benefits.

Initial Application

First, you need to apply. You can do this online, over the phone, or at a Security Social Office. In most cases, applications do not get approved at this point. Your application can be denied, and you may not know what else to do.

You may want to work with an SSI attorney to help you file a new claim or request reconsideration. A legal expert with experience in the field knows what to do and can make the application process seamless for you.

Apply for Reconsideration

Should your initial application be denied, you need to file a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days from the date of denial. The Social Security officials will review your claim again and decide whether to approve it or not.

You will get your disability benefits if the officials approve your reconsideration application. However, if the application is denied, you may have nothing else to do. Alternatively, you may want to file another claim or request a hearing.

Hearing

You have 60 days to apply for a hearing if the Request for Reconsideration is denied. There are higher chances of getting approved at this stage. All claimants receive notices at least 30 days before the hearing date, requiring them to appear before the Administrative Law Judge.

You don’t need to travel far because the hearing happens at the Local Office of Disability Adjudication and Review. When working with a disability attorney, you can have your case well represented, and you can be sure of a strong defense in your favor. It is not a good idea to go to a hearing without legal representation from an experienced attorney.

Final Decision

When done with the hearing, an ALJ will give you the final decision based on the approval status. You will receive a Notice of Award or Notice of Decision if your claim gets approved.

If your claim isn’t approved, you may want to appeal to the Appeals Council. This can be a challenging process, and it’d be best to seek help from your disability attorney.

Author information: Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer based out of Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2.