People typically only apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in cases where they are truly incapable of working. They may have struggled for years before finally acknowledging that their functional limitations make working difficult or dangerous.
SSDI applicants often have very serious health challenges. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may not agree with their assertion that they need benefits. In many cases, people have to appeal after the SSA rejects their applications.
Reconsideration is the first stage of the appeals process. What can people expect during a reconsideration?
Reconsideration offers an opportunity to correct errors
Many small mistakes and oversights can lead to the SSA rejecting an otherwise eligible candidate. Those who believe a denial of benefits was an error can initiate an appeal if they respond quickly.
Reconsideration is an internal process within the SSA. The organization assigns a different professional to review the application. Before that review occurs, the applicant and their attorney can correct errors in the initial application paperwork and gather additional medical evidence.
A fresh pair of eyes reviewing the same application may reach a different determination than the SSA employee who initially reviewed the application. Reconsideration can lead to benefits in cases where SSA workers agree that the original rejection was inappropriate. If reconsideration is not successful, there are additional stages of appeals available.
Obtaining support when handling a rejected SSDI benefits claim can be useful. Applicants may need assistance throughout the different stages of the appeals process, even reconsideration. Professional legal support may facilitate a faster, positive outcome to an appeal while reducing stress for an applicant.