Here's the honest truth: Most of the decisions issued in Alabama about Social Security disability are wrong. Not some, most.
That leads me to my premise: Appeal first and ask questions later.
Well, maybe it's OK to ask a few questions first.
But
ultimately, you probably won't get any benefits until you appeal. And probably you will have to appeal twice.
The first appeal, called "Reconsideration," is also denied in about 90 percent of cases. The only reason to file for "Reconsideration" is to get to the next step, which is a hearing.
In the second appeal (your third action) you will take
your case before a US Administrative Law Judge, who will hold a
hearing, listen to all the evidence and give you a new decision. Your lawyer/advocate may attend the hearing and help you make your case.
Approximately one-half of the decisions that have been denied can be approved during a hearing.
Unfortunately, many claimants give up after being denied the first time. This is tragic. The correct response to a denied application is: Keep filing appeals until you get before a judge.
In most cases that I represent, a judge will award past due benefits dating back to the date of original disability or 12 months prior to the application date.
These national averages are shocking:
27% Percentage of claims approved at the application level
13% Percentage of claims approved at Reconsideration
50% Approximate percentage approved at hearings
For the absolute best chance of approval take your case to hearing before an Administrative Law Judge!
You may need some help with the appeal process. The good news: A lawyer or advocate will not charge you a fee unless you get approved and receive your past due benefits! Keep fighting!
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The Forsythe Firm: Social Security Justice. Call (256) 799-0297.
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