Hackensack NJ SSDI Claim Process Attorney

How Does the SSDI Claims Process Work?

1.) The initial application: The first step in the SSDI claims process is to complete the initial application materials and file your petition. Attorney Steven Gaechter can help you make sense of those materials, gather the necessary documentation and file the petition electronically so that benefits start accruing immediately.

2.) A denial of benefits: While not every initial application is denied, most are. If this has happened to you — don't be discouraged. Our firm has helped hundreds of people who've been in similar circumstances to overcome this and to obtain benefits by exercising their right to appeal. Initially, this means filing a "request for reconsideration" — something that essentially asks the agency to take a second look at your claim.

You only have 60 days to appeal the initial denied disability claim. Wait too long and you'll not only have to start the process over — you'll lose out on the benefits that started accruing the date your first application was received. Talk to us about the next step in the SSDI claims process. Call 201-546-5758 today.

3.) The ALJ hearing: If "reconsideration" does not lead to an approval, the next step in the SSDI claims process is to request a hearing before an administrative law judge. Generally, this will be a fairly informal hearing and in most cases, will be the first opportunity claimants have had to speak with an actual decision-maker.

4.) The Appeals Council: If the administrative law judge rules against you, you can appeal that decision to the Social Security Appeals Council in Falls Church, Virginia. The Appeals Council only reviews the judge's decision and there is no hearing at that level.

5.) Federal court: If the Appeals Council does not reverse the administrative law judge's decision, the next step is federal court: First, federal district court; second, the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit; and, failing all else, the United States Supreme Court.

All appeals are time-sensitive. Don't give up hope and don't wait to speak with an experienced disability lawyer.

Our firm helps people in Bergen County and throughout northern New Jersey to navigate the SSDI claims process effectively. Clients pay no legal fees unless we obtain benefits on their behalf.

To schedule a free initial consultation with attorney Steven Gaechter — call our law offices directly at 201-546-5758 or, take a moment to contact us online.

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