HOW DO YOU WIN A SOCIAL SECURITY APPEAL?

After every Social Security decision, there are 60 days to file a written appeal.  

Tips for winning your appeal:

1.  File your appeal on time (within 60 days).
2.  Make sure to submit all forms, signed and dated.
3.  Get supporting documents from your doctor, preferably a residual functional capacity form or medical source statement.
4.  Be truthful.
5.  Consider getting legal counsel.  You are not strictly required to have a lawyer, but having good representation makes it much more likely that you will win.  The judge who hears your appeal will recommend that you get a lawyer.  Who would know better?

Frequently Asked Appeal Questions

Q.  What are my chances of winning at the hearing level?
A.  In Alabama, about 42 percent win at the hearing level.

Q. How long does it take to get a hearing?
A.  The time varies but right now it is about 10 months.

Q.  If I lose my hearing, is there a further appeal?
A.  Yes, you may appeal to the Appeals Council.

Q.  What happens if I show up at my hearing without a lawyer?
A.  The judge will offer to postpone your hearing so you can get a lawyer; the hearing will be rescheduled later.

Q.  Do I have to pay my lawyer even if I don't win?
A.  No.  You can't be charged a fee unless you win.

Q.  What happens if I wait longer than 60 days to appeal?
A.  You have to show good cause for filing late.  If you can't show you had a good cause your appeal will be dismissed.

The Forsythe Firm
7027 Old Madison Pike
Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806
"Across from Bridge Street"
Call (256) 799-0297

Practice limited to Social Security disability only

 SOCIAL SECURITY JUSTICE - WEBSITE


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