The Process

Disability Specialist, Inc. will assist you with filling out all the required applications, forms, questionnaires and will write to your doctors and explain how the law may pertain to your condition so their opinions are clearly stated in your medical record. We may also arrange for professional testing and evaluation to support your claim. Disability Specialist, Inc. will examine your records thoroughly and track your claim to insure that it proceeds in a timely manner.

Initial Application

Once your application is filed, it will take about 4 to 6 months for Social Security to make a decision about your eligibility for benefits. They may request medical evidence or other additional information. They may also ask that you see one of their doctors. If Social Security decides that you are not eligible for benefits, they will send you a notice explaining the decision. If you don't agree with the decision, you have 60 days to file a reconsideration appeal.

First Appeal - Reconsideration

During the reconsideration appeal, Social Security will look at your claim and review all the evidence, including any new evidence that may have been added. Reconsideration appeals usually take from 3 to 5 months for Social Security to make a decision about your eligibility for benefits. As with the previous decision, if you do not agree with the decision, you have 60 days to file an Administrative Law Judge appeal.

Second Appeal - Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge

This appeal requests a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). It usually takes 18 to 24 months to be scheduled for a hearing with an ALJ, at which time you and your representative will have the opportunity to explain your case in person. This will be the first time you will be able to give verbal testimony regarding your disability and how it affects your ability to work. The ALJ will review all the evidence in your file prior to the hearing, and will issue a new written decision on your claim. The decision may take 4 to 6 months to receive. The majority of claims are approved at the ALJ level compared to the initial or reconsideration levels. If the decision is unfavorable, you have 60 days to file an Appeals Council appeal.

Third Appeal - Appeals Council

If the decision made by the ALJ is unfavorable, you may file an appeal to have your claim reviewed by Social Security's Appeals Council. Your representative may submit written arguments in support of your claim. The Appeals Council will perform one of three actions: deny your request for a review; order another hearing to be held; or decide in your favor. It may take 1 year or more for you to receive a decision from the Appeals Council. If the decision is unfavorable you have 60 days to file an appeal in Federal District Court.

Fourth Appeal - Review by the Federal District Court

If you disagree with the Appeals Council's decision, a lawsuit may be filed in Federal District Court.

We offer full service with extensive support at every step of the process.