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It isn’t easy to hear that your claim for Social Security disability benefits has been denied. Pekas Smith Disability Attorneys should be your next call. When you need disability appeal lawyers, our law firm can represent you.
If your application for benefits has been rejected or denied, a disability lawyer can help you make the most of your appeal. We work hard to secure your life. Contact Pekas Smith Disability Attorneys today to discuss your case.
SSDI Appeal Lawyers
A surprising number of SSD claims are initially denied. It doesn’t mean that the claim is necessarily bad, it just means that you need to appeal. Don’t give up. We can help.
Our SSDI appeal lawyers are trained and experienced professionals with a track record of success. In Phoenix, Tucson, and throughout Arizona, we have helped thousands of people succeed in the complex Social Security system.
Whatever your situation, we invite you to contact us. If you’re facing a denial and the need to appeal, Pekas Smith Disability Attorneys is here to serve you. Call or message us for a free consultation.
Why Are SSD Claims Denied?
To make your appeal successful, you need to know why your claim was denied. Here are some common reasons why Social Security disability claims are denied.
- Missing medical information or records, incomplete records, not having a treating physician
- Failing to attend a consultative examination (CE)
- Earnings are too high, qualifying as substantial gainful activity
- Disability is not severe enough, examiners don’t think you’re limited enough in your ability to work
- They need more information about how the disability will last at least 12 months or is expected to result in death
- Missing physical therapy appointments or not following other medical treatment directives
- Drug use or alcoholism contributing to your inability to work
- Certain criminal convictions or fraud
- Communication difficulties – administrators may need to contact you about your application
Pekas Smith Disability Attorneys can determine the reasons for the denial. Then, we address how to have your denial reversed through the appeals process. It can feel impossible to navigate the SSD appeals system, but our attorneys have been there thousands of time before. We can represent you.
Working with a specialist SSD attorney is your best defense. Contact us now for a free consultation.
Appealing SSD Denials
An SSD appeal is another opportunity to have someone review and approve your application for Social Security disability benefits. You can have another person review the case and the evidence to determine if you can receive benefits. There are multiple rounds of appeals, and each are different in their procedures.
First Appeal – Reconsideration
If your initial application for disability benefits is denied, you can and should appeal the denial. The first appeal is called Reconsideration, which is a paper review of the first or initial decision. Your claim is returned to the Disability Determinations Service (DDS) and assigned to a disability examiner who did not previously review your case. This appeal is structured by Social Security to be a confirmation or reversal of the initial decision on your claim.
How We Help
We will file your appeal, again ensuring that accurate and detailed information is presented to provide a positive decision. While your claim is pending at the DDS your case manager will contact the disability examiner and review the list of documents in your file. Additional forms may be requested or medical examinations scheduled. We will continue to update and develop your documentation to provide an avenue to a reversal of the initial denial and so that a record is built effectively for an appeal hearing, should it be necessary.
Second Appeal – Hearing
The majority of disability cases are approved at the second appeal, which is a Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge. Your claim will be sent to one of three Offices of Hearings and Appeals in Arizona. In time, your case will be scheduled for a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge and, if the judge chooses, an independent vocational expert or medical expert.
How We Help
Your case will be prepared by our team of hearing specialists who work directly with your attorney to obtain all necessary medical records and evidence to develop the legal basis for your case to be approved. Our Social Security Disability attorneys’ experience and extensive knowledge of Social Security Law will ensure you are well prepared for your day in front of the judge.
You will meet with your attorney prior to the day of the hearing so that you are aware of the entire process and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns you may have about the hearing. Because we are local, Arizona attorneys we have the advantage of knowing the judges in the three Offices of Hearings and Appeals. We are familiar with their individual requirements, preferences and procedures. We have a well-established presence at hearings, having represented over 15,000 clients at hearings.
On the day of the hearing, your SSD attorney will be by your side and will know how to effectively present evidence to support your disability case and assertively question any independent medical and vocational experts the Social Security Administration may call upon to testify your appeal.
Serving Phoenix, Tucson, and all of Arizona
We have helped more than 10,000 people throughout Arizona and beyond. Wherever you are located, whether you are in Phoenix, Tucson, anywhere in Arizona and beyond, we can serve your needs.
Meet with us in a way that is convenient for you. Appointments are available today to discuss your situation.
Free Consultation for SSD Appeals and Denials
Why was my claim denied?
Can I file an appeal?
How do I file an appeal?
What can I do to help my case?
If you have these questions, or you have other questions about an SSD appeal or denial, contact us for a free consultation. Pekas Smith Disability Attorneys handles SSD appeals and denials.
You can reach out 24-7. Meet our legal team and see how we can help. When Social Security has denied your application, we know that you are suffering. Our legal team is here to help. We assist with all stages of the appeals process, providing experienced legal guidance and representation throughout your case.
Call or message us now to begin.
SSD Appeals and Denials FAQs
Can you appeal if your Social Security disability is denied?
Yes, you can – and you should – appeal if your Social Security disability is denied. You can ask for reconsideration and then a hearing, appeal and federal court action.
If my Social Security disability is denied, what should I do?
If your Social Security disability is denied, don’t give up! Contact us right away. You have rights and you have options, and there are important time windows for protecting your rights. Contact us for a free consultation about what you can do and how we can help.
What are your chances of winning an appeal from Social Security?
Your chances of winning a Social Security appeal depend on the issues that you are appealing and how you present your case. Appeals are won – but they require diligent preparation. Our attorneys can use our knowledge and experience to create a strategy for your case.
Can an attorney represent you in a Social Security disability appeal?
Yes, an attorney can represent you in a Social Security disability appeal. In fact, having an attorney who knows what’s required may be what makes your claim successful.
