Disability Hearings

Social Security disability benefits serve as financial support for individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying medical impairment. However, obtaining these benefits is a complex endeavor, and a majority of initial claims are denied.

The primary reasons for benefit denials include:

• Errors in the application
• Insufficient work credits (for SSDI)
• Failure to meet the income and asset test (for SSI)
• The condition is not considered a disability
• Lack of medical evidence supporting the claim
• Non-compliance with medical treatment
• Despite severe impairments, the claimant still has residual functional capacity to perform other available work in the US economy

If your claim is denied, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will provide a letter explaining the reasons for the denial and informing you of your right to appeal. The appeals process begins by filing a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days of receiving the denial letter.

During this phase of your disability appeal, a disability examiner (and possibly a medical consultant) who was not involved in the initial claim will review the decision. It’s important to note that less than 20 percent of reconsideration claims are approved. Typically, a new diagnosis or a worsening of your condition is required for a reconsideration claim to be approved.

The next step is to request a disability hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is where Attorney Jon Sipes can provide knowledgeable representation and guide you through the disability hearing process. With his skills, experience, and network of experts, he will build a strong case to support your disability claim.