How do I appeal a denial of SSDI benefits?

In order to appeal a denial of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in the state of Washington, you will need to file an appeal with your local Social Security office or the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR). The first step is to request a “reconsideration” of your claim by filing a “Request for Reconsideration” form. After you file this form, your claim will be reviewed by another Social Security representative who may decide to overturn the denial of your claim. If the reconsideration does not overturn the denial of benefits, you may then file a Request for Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). At this hearing, you can present evidence and arguments to support your claim. An ALJ will then make a decision as to whether or not to award benefits. If you are still unsatisfied with the ALJ’s decision, you may file an appeal with the Appeals Council and ask the Council to review the decision. However, the Appeals Council may not grant your request for review. Finally, if unsuccessful at the Appeals Council level, you may take your claim to Federal District Court. If you choose to pursue this option, you should contact a lawyer who specializes in disability benefits appeals to assist you. The lawyer will determine whether it is advisable to file an appeal in Federal District Court. In conclusion, if you have been denied SSDI benefits in Washington, you may appeal the decision through a reconsideration, a hearing before an ALJ, or even in Federal District Court. It is recommended that you seek the assistance of a lawyer who specializes in disability benefits appeals to help you navigate the appeals process.

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