You waited months. You followed the rules. You truly need the help. And still, Social Security Disability sent you a denial letter.
Now what?
Take a breath. You’re not alone.
At Horenstein, Nicholson & Blumenthal (HNB), our disability lawyers have helped thousands of people across Ohio get past this moment. We understand the frustration, fear and confusion. We’re here to help you take the next steps to get another chance at life-changing financial relief when you can’t work.
Disability benefits exist to support people when health problems alter their lives. Just because your initial application was denied doesn’t mean you don’t qualify.
In fact, most people are denied the first time around. You should likely file an appeal. Because denials are so common, appeals are an expected part of the process. You generally have 60 days from your denial letter to start your appeal.
You have options. And rights. The Ohio disability lawyers at HNB know what to do if Social Security denies your disability claim. We can help you keep your case, and hope for getting crucial financial relief, alive.
That’s why they say: “Helping me, that’s HNB.”
When you open that denial letter, you might be confused, especially when you know how hard your health problems are, and you know you’re unable to work.
Understanding why people get denied can help you make your next move wisely.
Sometimes your denial letter will state reasons you were denied. Or you have to study it closer for signs of why you were denied. Have an experienced disability attorney take a look.
This is your starting point for determining what information or evidence you need for your appeal.
Here are some of the most common reasons the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies disability claims:
Social Security Disability appeals are more complicated, technical and legalistic than filling out the application in the first place. It’s a time when you want to talk to an experienced disability lawyer. You pay no attorney fee until you win benefits.
As soon as possible after you get the denial letter, talk to HNB for a FREE evaluation of your disability case
A denial isn’t the end; it’s the beginning of your chance to fight back and win.
In fact, a higher percentage of people get approved for Social Security Disability after they appeal their benefits denials than when they apply for the first time.
When you’re wondering what to do if Social Security denies your disability claim, these are the next steps to take:
This is your first chance to ask the SSA to take another look at your case. Don’t miss the 60-day deadline. When you ask for a reconsideration, you can add new medical records from the doctors and clinics you go to. It’s still hard to get approved just yet though.
If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. This is where many people finally succeed—if their cases are well-prepared. Testimony, updated medical records and witness statements can all make a difference.
When you’re waiting for your disability hearing, now is the time to submit additional treatment notes, specialist reports, or a “Residual Functional Capacity” form completed by your doctor. These documents show how your health limits your daily activities and work ability.
A qualified Social Security Disability attorney knows how to build a compelling case, avoid costly mistakes, and meet all deadlines. In hearings with disability judges, government numbers have shown that people have better chances of approval with a representative.
At HNB, we don’t just step in after denials—we’re with you from the start if you call us early enough. And we’re with you every step of the way if you need to continue your appeal even beyond your disability hearing.
Horenstein, Nicholson & Blumenthal has spent more than 45 years helping Ohioans get disability benefits, workers’ comp, veterans’ disability, and more. We understand what you’re up against—and we know how to fight for the benefits you’ve earned.
If you just got denied, we’ll review your denial letter and give you a clear plan to move forward and still get financial relief.
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124 E. Third Street
Fifth Floor
Dayton, OH 45402
Disclaimer: Horenstein, Nicholson & Blumenthal publishes this website as a service to our clients and to the public for informational and advertisement purposes only. The materials contained within this website are not intended to and do not constitute legal advice.
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