How to Handle Denied Rockford Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security benefits provide an important safety net in the event you suffer a disabling injury or illness. Unfortunately, obtaining the benefits you are entitled to may prove challenging, as many otherwise valid applications end up being denied. At Tuite Law, we can advise you on how to handle denied Rockford Social Security disability benefits, while providing the aggressive legal representation you need to help protect your rights and get your claim approved.

Social Security Benefits Denied?

If you have filed a claim for Social Security disability benefits and had it denied, it is important to know you are not alone. According to statistics from the Social Security Administration (SSA), less than a third of all first-time applicants end up getting their claims approved. There are two common reasons why most SSA disability claims are denied:

1. Technical denials, due to not filling out forms completely, not providing the proper documentation, failing to respond within time limits, or earning too much to be considered disabled.  
2. Medical denials, due to uncovered conditions, lack of doctor verification, not following prescribed treatments, or having a disability that does not qualify in terms of the severity or time you will be disabled.

Appealing A Denied Social Security Disability Claim

If your Social Security disability application is denied, you will be notified in writing of the reason for the denial, along with notification of your right to appeal the decision. You must notify SSA of your intent to appeal the decision in writing, and within 60 days of your denial. The Social Security appeals process consists of four levels:

• Reconsideration: This is a complete review of your benefit claim, by someone with the SSA who was not involved in the initial determination. A decision will be made on whether to approve or deny your claim, and you can submit any missing or new information about your claim so that it can be included in the review.
• Hearing by administrative law judge: If your claim is denied in reconsideration, you have the right to a hearing before an administrative law judge, who will consider testimony from you and any witnesses or experts in support of your claim before rendering a decision.  
• Review by appeals council: If you continue to be denied benefits, you may request a review by the SSA appeals council. If this council chooses to hear your case, it will be returned to an administrative judge for further review.
• Review in federal court: If you continue to be denied or are refused for review, you may file a lawsuit in federal district court.

How Our Rockford Social Security Attorney Can Assist You

The Social Security appeals process can be complicated and confusing, which is why it is so important to have an experienced Rockford Social Security attorney by your side. If you have had your application denied, call or contact Tuite Law online immediately to request a free consultation. We can assist in gathering the evidence necessary to support your claim while representing your interests and defending your rights in dealings with the Social Security Administration so that you can get the benefits you are entitled to. (815) 965-5777.