What happens if Social Security turns down my claim for disability benefits?
A. If you disagree with Social Security Administration’s decision, you can appeal it. You have 60 days to file a written appeal with any Social Security office. Generally, there are four levels to the appeals process. They are: • Reconsideration. Your claim is reviewed by someone who did not take part in the first decision. • Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge. You can appear before a judge to present your case. • Review by Appeals Council. If the Appeals Council decides your case should be reviewed, it will either decide your case or return it to the administrative law judge for further review. • Federal District Court. If the Appeals Council decides not to review your case or if you disagree with its decision, you may file a lawsuit in a federal district court. If you disagree with the decision at one level, you have 60 days to appeal to the next level until you are satisfied with the decision or have completed the last level of appeal. You have two special appeal rights when
