Laurel SSDI Appeals Attorneys

Denied SSDI Application? Let McGowan & Cecil, LLC Help You!

It is truly disheartening to learn that your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits application has been denied. Fortunately, this is not the end of the road for you. Most initial applications are denied, but an appeals process is in place to help people whose claims have been denied for the wrong reasons.

At McGowan & Cecil, LLC, we provide sound legal advice and skilled representation to clients who need to file an appeal for their SSDI benefits. We will navigate you through every step of the process and work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the benefits you rightfully deserve.

Speak with an experienced Laurel SSDI appeals lawyer when you contact our firm at (301) 761-2007. We offer a free consultation and charge no fee unless we recover SSDI benefits for you.

What to Do If Your SSDI Claim Is Denied

If your SSDI application is denied, don’t worry. The application process can be confusing, and, as previously mentioned, receiving a denial notice is actually not uncommon—about two thirds of all initial SSDI applications are denied. Even if you rightfully qualify for SSDI benefits, you may get turned down the first time around. This is because the Social Security Administration (SSA) receives such a large volume of claims that they have to processed quickly. Therefore, if an application is incomplete, includes a mistake, or isn’t backed by enough medical evidence, it will probably get thrown out.

Fortunately, you have options. The first thing you should do if you receive a denial notice is to request an appeal as soon as possible. The deadline to request an appeal is 60 days after the date of the denial. Instructions on how to appeal your claim should be included with your denial letter. If not, you can contact a lawyer or the SSA office directly for instructions.

Next, contact an attorney. Even if you choose not to move forward with a legal representative by your side, an experienced SSDI appeals lawyer can provide sound advice regarding the next steps you need to take. Most law firms offer free consultations, so there is no risk in getting in touch.

The SSDI Appeals Process

Our Laurel attorneys have assisted with numerous SSDI claims during our firm’s 100-plus year history, and we understand the appeals process in and out.

If your application for SSDI benefits has been denied, we can file an appeal on your behalf by taking the following steps:

• Request for reconsideration: If your initial application for SSDI benefits has been denied, you may request a reconsideration. You have a very limited time to file an appeal, so contact our office immediately for assistance. During this stage, a second review will be conducted by a person who was not involved in the first review. He or she will look at all of the original application information as well as any new information you provide to make a decision.
• Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing: If your claim is once again denied after reconsideration, you may request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Like your request for reconsideration, the time is very limited, so please contact our firm as soon as you are able for assistance. The ALJ hearing is the first time that you have an opportunity to appear before a judge. The judge may review medical records and hear testimony. The ALJ hearing is not intended to be adversarial in nature, but it is critical that you have an experienced Laurel Social Security Disability lawyer with you who can ensure the protection of your rights.

It is at the administrative hearing that your chance of success is improved considerably. Most initial applications and requests for reconsideration result in a denial of benefits, so it is critical that you have a skilled and dedicated SSDI appeals counsel on your side for your administrative hearing.

Consult With Our Laurel Social Security Disability Attorneys

If retained as your counsel for your SSDI appeal, we will work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf. Key steps must be taken to properly handle your appeal. Your medical records must be in order and you must be prepared to answer questions at your hearing. You can trust that as your attorneys, we are skilled in crafting a compelling argument on your behalf. We are committed to working diligently to protect your rights and vigorously pursue the benefits you are entitled to receive.

From our law firm in Laurel, we serve clients throughout the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. Schedule a free consultation with McGowan & Cecil, LLC via our online contact form or phone at (301) 761-2007.