Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a form of financial assistance that helps disabled individuals and older adults cover living expenses. Filing an SSI claim can be a complex and time-consuming process, and many initial applications are denied. If you were denied when applying for SSI in Findlay, you have the right to appeal and request a hearing.
A Findlay SSI hearing lawyer can help collect evidence of your disability, prepare you for a hearing, and present evidence during an SSI hearing. Contact our experienced SSI legal team at Schaffer & Associates to learn about your options.
If your initial application for SSI benefits is denied, you have options, including a hearing. Some common reasons for denial of an initial SSI claim include:
After denial of an initial claim, SSI applicants can file a request for reconsideration. A knowledgeable SSI hearing attorney in Findlay will review the reasons for your claim denial and address any issues involved. For example, if your claim lacked sufficient medical evidence, your lawyer can work with you to make sure you have detailed medical records for your appeal.
If your request for reconsideration is denied, your next step is to ask for a hearing date. The request for hearing must be filed within 60 days of the reconsideration decision. The hearing will be conducted by an administrative law judge, and it helps to have skilled legal assistance from an attorney with experience in front of such judges for SSI hearings.
In the time leading up to the SSI hearing, you and your SSI attorney can review all the evidence you previously submitted, then look at additional evidence to strengthen your case. Evidence from health care providers involved with your care, and other witnesses who can provide details on how your conditions impact work abilities, will all work to enhance your chances of success at the hearing. An SSI hearing attorney in Findlay can build all credible evidence and submit it to your judge before the hearing. The lawyer will also file a pre-hearing brief addressing the key points of your claim.
Whether your hearing is virtual or in person, your SSI claims lawyer will be at your side to present a strong argument, show the evidence, and help you answer questions from the judge. Your lawyer’s goal will be to give the administrative law judge a complete picture of your condition and the strength of your case.
Knowing what to do after an initial SSI claim denial is essential to getting the benefits you deserve. A Findlay SSI hearing lawyer can walk you through each phase of the process, through the hearing, and beyond. Preparation is the key to success at an SSI hearing, and your attorney will put you in the best position to earn a favorable outcome.
Call Schaffer & Associates today to learn how to take your next step.