Many people have heard a claim that the Social Security Administration (SSA) rejects almost every applicant for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits initially. While urban legends do exaggerate reality, denials are relatively common.
SSDI applicants often need to appeal to obtain the financial benefits they need when they become unable to work due to medical challenges. Many applicants appealing denied benefits prevail during a reconsideration or a hearing in front of an administrative law judge.
Occasionally, SSDI applicants must appeal in federal court. When is that additional step necessary to pursue SSDI benefits?
After a failed court appeal
Federal court appeals are the third level of appeal available to SSDI applicants. If an administrative law judge rules against an applicant but procedural records and medical documentation support their claim that they qualify, an attorney can potentially help them appeal in federal court.
There is a limited window of opportunity to initiate a federal court appeal after an unsuccessful hearing in front of an administrative law judge. Most of the time, SSDI appellants must submit the necessary paperwork to the courts within 60 days of the hearing.
The failure to act properly can result in people losing the right to appeal in federal court. The federal appeals process can be relatively lengthy, due to the amount of demand for time in federal court. SSDI applicants generally need support to navigate a complex system and understand the court timeline.
Those intending to appeal a determination in federal court likely need help managing paperwork and understanding the process ahead. Working with an SSDI lawyer can help applicants avoid errors and understand the often-confusing federal court appeals process.