How to Appeal a Hearing With a Judge for Social Security Disability

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides disability benefits to individuals with a sufficient work history involving payment of Social Security taxes. If your initial application was denied, and you appealed the decision to an administrative law judge who subsequently denied the appeal, you have the right to appeal the decision and have it reviewed by the SSA appeals council.

Instructions

• 1

  Calculate the date that is 60 days from the date on the denial letter. This is your deadline for submitting an appeal.

• 2

  Gather medical records, statements from relatives, previous employers, and other individuals familiar with your disability and other supporting documentation to help prove your disability.

• 3

  Complete SSA Form HA-520 (see resources) and submit it with the materials obtained in step 2 within 60 days of the date listed on your denial letter. You will need to fill in your name, Social Security number and reason for appeal on this form. It may take months or even over a year for a decision to be made on your case.

• 4

  Hire an attorney if you are denied. You must have an attorney for the final appeal. The final appeal involves filing a civil suit against SSA in federal district court. A federal district court judge unaffiliated with SSA will hear your case and will provide you with a written decision after your court hearing. If you are denied disability benefits at this level, you have the option of reapplying for Social Security disability benefits and starting the entire process over. You do not have the option of appealing this decision.