Appeals
Disability Denied? We Appeal — And Win.
~65% of initial claims are denied. Don't reapply — appeal. You have 60 days. The hearing level is where most cases are actually won.
The four levels of disability appeals
1. Reconsideration
A different reviewer at DDS looks at your file. Approval rates are low (~13%), but it's a required step in most states. We strengthen your medical record before resubmission.
2. Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
This is where cases are won. You testify, a vocational expert testifies, and we cross-examine. Represented claimants are far more likely to win at this stage. See the data →
3. Appeals Council review
If the ALJ denies you, we ask the Appeals Council to review for legal error. They can affirm, reverse, or remand.
4. Federal district court
Final step: filing a civil action in federal court. We litigate at this level when the SSA gets it wrong.
How fast do I have to act?
60 days from the date on your denial notice. Miss it and you start over — losing months of back pay. Call us today.
What it costs
Nothing up front. Our fee is paid only out of past-due benefits if we win, capped by federal law. Read our fee policy →