Your Claim Was Denied. That Happens to Most People.

Most people who apply for Social Security disability benefits get denied the first time. Most get denied again at the next stage too. That does not mean you don’t qualify. It usually means the process is working the way it was designed to, slowly and against you at first.

The hearing before an Administrative Law Judge is where most claims are decided one way or the other. Having a lawyer at that stage can make a real difference.

If you have been denied, or if you want to understand the process before you start, call.

SSDI vs. SSI

Social Security Disability Insurance is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. Your benefit is based on your earnings history. Supplemental Security Income is for people with limited income and assets, regardless of work history. You might qualify for one, both, or neither. The medical requirements are the same for both.

What “Disabled” Means to Social Security

Social Security uses a strict definition of disability that has nothing to do with what your doctor says or what other agencies have found. To qualify, you have to show that you cannot do any substantial work because of a medical condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least a year, or that is expected to result in death.

SSA evaluates claims through a five-step process that looks at whether you are working, how severe your condition is, whether it meets any of SSA’s listed impairments, whether you can do your past work, and whether there is other work you could do given your age, education, and work history.

The Process Takes Time

The initial decision alone can take several months. If that gets denied and you request reconsideration, that is more time. A hearing request can mean waiting a year or longer. The earlier you file, the earlier the clock starts running on potential back pay if you are eventually approved.

The ALJ Hearing

The hearing is an administrative proceeding before a judge. You testify about your conditions and how they affect your daily life and ability to work. The judge then issues a written decision. This is the stage where most people who are going to be approved get approved, and where having a representative can make the most difference.

After a Denial

If the judge denies your claim, you can appeal to the SSA Appeals Council. If that does not resolve it, the next step is federal court — where the judge is not re-hearing your case, just checking whether SSA’s decision was legally sound.

Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati

This practice handles SSD and SSI claims in Northern Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati area, including representation at ALJ hearings. If you have been denied or want to understand the process before applying, call for a consultation.