Social Security Process

A. Initial Application

Can be done in person at the applicant’s local Social Security office or online at http://www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability/
Waiting time for a decision is generally 90 days, but may take longer
An attorney is not needed at this step

If the initial application is denied, the claimant has 60 from the date of the denial to file an appeal called a Request for Reconsideration
The appeal consists of a Disability Report-Appeal form, a Request for Reconsideration form and 3 Authorization to Release Medical Information forms and can be completed at the local office or by printing the forms available online
Waiting time for a decision is generally 90 days, but may take longer
An attorney can be helpful at this stage

If the claimant is denied at the Reconsideration stage, s/he has 60 days from the date of the denial to file an appeal in a Request for a Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge
The appeal consists of a Disability Report-Appeal form, a Request for a Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge and a new medical authorization form, as well as any new medical or other evidence that is relevant
Waiting time for a hearing date at the Milwaukee Office of Disability Adjudication and Review may take up to 18 months or longer (as of 7.09)
An attorney should be retained at the stage

If the claimant is denied benefits by the Administrative Law Judge, an appeal can be made to the Appeals Council for review

If the Appeals Council denies the claimant’s request for review OR the decision by the Administrative Law Judge is affirmed, the claimant may file in Federal Court

To schedule a free initial consultation, contact MyLTDbenefits.com through this Web site.