Millions of Americans are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. Those facing long-term or permanent disabling conditions can claim Social Security disability benefits. These benefits go a long way to alleviate the burden of such situations. Many people are unfamiliar with the claims process or what steps to take if their claim in Kansas City is denied.
The SSA, Social Security Administration, receives millions of applications every year. Of these, perhaps one-third are approved. The remaining two-thirds have to go into a lengthy appeals process.
There are five stages to both SSDI and SSI applications. Many applications are approved at the third stage, which is the hearing.
The Initial Claim
The first step is to apply for disability benefits. It is at this stage that the claimant submits an application along with supporting documentation and medical evidence. It takes between three and six months for the claim to be processed. About 30 percent are approved.
Reconsideration
If the initial claim is disallowed, you have 60 days in which to file an appeal. The initial appeal is to request that the decision to deny benefits be reconsidered. This second review can take an additional three to five months, and fewer than 15 percent are approved.
Hearing
The second step is a Social Security disability hearing. An Administrative Law Judge will review your claim. The judge can either approve or deny your claim or send it back for further review. This stage can take two years or more to complete. Although it may take a long time, close to 65 percent of claims are approved during the hearing process.
If you fail to get approval by this time, you have the right to appeal the judge’s decision. Fewer than two percent of cases that reach this point are approved. The final stage is to take your case to Federal District Court.
If your claim for Social Security disability has been denied, contact the Grundy Disability Group, LLC in Kansas City. For detailed information, visit https://www.grundydisabilitygroup.com. Like us on our facebook page.
