| If you have applied for Social Security disability benefits and your claim has been denied, the notices you receive will tell you how long you have to appeal.
In most cases, you must either file your appeal before the deadline or start your claim over.
If you have been denied benefits after your first application, you will need to file a Request for Reconsideration.
If you have been denied benefits after filing a Request for Reconsideration, you will probably need to file a Request for Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge.
If you have filed a Request for Hearing on your own and you decide that you want a representative to help you with your claim, do not delay!
If you or your representative fail to appear at your hearing, your claim will probably be denied.
The representative you choose will need time to meet with you, review your file and in some cases, submit additional medical evidence to the Office of Hearings and Appeals.
Your representative will also need time to prepare a written brief and a statement that your record is complete. This is due 14 days before your hearing.
Once your hearing date has been set, you may not be able to get it continued. For your representative to provide you with the help you need, you must contact him or her right away.
Do not delay when you get denied.
Do not give up when you get denied.
Many people who are denied at the first or second level win at the Administrative Law Judge hearing.
Call the staff at the Law Office of Joni Beth Bailey to discuss your appeal as soon as you get your denial so that you do not lose the benefits you worked so hard for.
The number is (toll free) 1-866-684-8668. You can leave a message any time of day or night and a staff member will return your call promptly.
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