An attorney friend of mine once said, "Social Security disability is like an onion because it has layers. If the outside layer is bad, you have to peel it off and go to the second layer." As I think about that, it makes sense. Let me explain.
LAYER 1 is the application level of a disability claim. It usually turns out bad for the claimant because up to 78 percent of claims get denied at this layer.
LAYER 2 (Not used in Alabama) is the Reconsideration stage, where a different person at Social Security reviews your denied claim and usually denies it again. Alabama residents skip Layer 2 completely.
LAYER 3 is a hearing before an administrative law judge. In this 45-minute hearing, your odds of getting benefits approved doubles. In fact, this is the layer where most claims finally get approved and paid.
How do you get to Layer 3? By filing a Request for Hearing within 60 days of the original denial letter. This appeal must be filed in writing. Calling the Social Security office does not work and will not file an appeal.
You may represent yourself at a "Layer 3" procedure. However, it is well known that claimants with professional representation win more often than those who don't. So, the real question becomes, Should you represent yourself?
Contact experienced disability advocates - Forsythe Firm
HELPING HONEST, HARD WORKING PEOPLE GET THE DISABILITY BENEFITS THEY DESERVE. WE WORK TO GET YOU MAXIMUM BENEFITS AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. Phone (256) 799-0297.
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