Was your Social Security disability claim denied in Johnson City? If so, you still have the right to challenge the decision, but you must act quickly to meet strict deadlines. Do not give up. The majority of SSD claims are initially denied, but many applicants ultimately receive the benefits they deserve through the appeals process.
The experienced Johnson City SSD appeals lawyers at The Terry Law Firm are ready to review your denial letter, explain your options, gather new medical evidence, and represent you during every stage of the process for appealing a decision on your claim for Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income benefits.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation. Let us answer your questions, evaluate your case, and help you take the next step in your Social Security disability appeal.
Do I Have a Valid SSDI Appeal in Johnson City?
You most likely have the right to appeal if the Social Security Administration (SSA) denied your disability benefits or undervalued your claim.
The strength of your appeal will depend on factors like the quality of your evidence, whether your condition meets Social Security’s definition of a disability, and whether you meet work and income requirements for the program.
A Social Security disability lawyer from The Terry Law Firm can review your denial letter, explain your options, and help you decide whether an appeal makes sense in your situation.
What Are the SSDI Appeal Stages in Tennessee?
Just because the SSA denies your disability claim at first, that does not mean you are out of options. The appeals process gives you several opportunities to challenge denial decisions. Here are the four main stages of the SSD appeals process in Tennessee:
Reconsideration
This stage involves a complete review of your application by someone who was not involved in the initial decision. You have 60 days from the date you receive the denial notice to request a reconsideration. During reconsideration, a reviewer looks at all of your original evidence and any new documents or details you provide.
Administrative Law Judge Hearing
If the reconsideration does not change the outcome of your claim, you have 60 days to request a hearing. During this stage, you can present your case to an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) who has not seen your claim before. The ALJ may ask questions, consider testimony from witnesses, and review additional evidence.
Appeals Council Review
If the hearing decision is still unfavorable, your next option is to request a review by the Appeals Council within 60 days. The Appeals Council can examine whether the ALJ followed the law when making their decision. The Appeals Council may decide to review your case, return it to the ALJ for additional review, issue its own decision, or refuse the request entirely.
Federal Court Review
If the Appeals Council denies your request or makes an unfavorable ruling, your final option is to file a civil action in federal district court within 60 days. This stage involves bringing a formal lawsuit so the federal district court can evaluate whether the ALJ followed the law in deciding your case.
SSDI Appeals Process FAQs
How long does the SSDI appeals process take in Johnson City?
The timeline depends on how far your case goes through the process. A reconsideration alone could take several weeks or months. If you request a hearing or your case goes all the way to federal court, the process could take much longer based on the ALJ’s or court’s schedule.
What new evidence can I submit during my appeal?
You can submit updated medical records, test results, and statements from doctors that explain how your condition affects your ability to work. You can also provide work history updates, medication lists, or information about new treatments. The more relevant and current your evidence, the better your chances of success could be.
Will I get back pay if I win my SSDI appeal?
If your appeal succeeds, Social Security may award back pay for the period between your established onset date of disability and the date your Social Security disability claim is approved. That can include the time you spent on the appeals process, minus the five-month waiting period that applies to SSDI benefits. The actual amount depends on when the SSA determines that your disability began and when you applied for benefits.
Can I work while my SSDI appeal is pending?
You can work, but you must not exceed the SSA’s limits for substantial gainful activity. If you earn over the set monthly limit, it could affect your eligibility for SSDI benefits. You should discuss any work you are thinking of doing with your lawyer to avoid jeopardizing your claim.
What happens at my SSDI hearing in Johnson City?
You and your lawyer will attend the hearing, either in person, by phone, or online. The ALJ will ask questions about your health, work history, and daily activities. The judge may also consider testimony from medical or vocational experts before making a decision.
How much does an SSDI appeals lawyer cost?
Most Social Security disability lawyers, including those at The Terry Law Firm, work on a contingency fee basis. That means your attorney gets paid only if you win. The attorney’s fee comes from your back pay (up to a set limit under federal law). You do not pay any upfront or out-of-pocket costs for legal fees.
What if I lose my hearing? Can I appeal again?
Yes. If you receive an unfavorable decision, you have 60 days to request review by the Social Security Appeals Council. If the Appeals Council denies your request or rules against you, you can take your case to federal district court.
Why SSDI Appeals Are Complex and Require Legal Help
Social Security has strict requirements for disability appeals, and a single mistake could derail your case. The appeals process involves multiple stages, each with tight deadlines and specific forms.
During your appeal, you might need to gather new medical records, prepare witness statements, or respond to detailed questions about your condition and work history. If your case progresses to a hearing, you will need to answer questions from an administrative law judge.
Our Social Security Disability Insurance appeals attorneys can protect your rights, prepare evidence for your case, and represent you at every stage of the process.
Do Not Give Up on Your SSDI Appeal. The Terry Law Firm Can Help You.
If you need to appeal a Social Security disability denial in Johnson City, reach out to The Terry Law Firm now. The sooner you act, the better your chances of success.
Contact us today for your free initial consultation to take the next step in pursuing the Social Security disability benefits you need.