| If you have been denied Social Security disability or SSI | | | | representative. You are not required to hire an |
| benefits and are appealing the decision at a hearing, | | | | attorney or representative; however, if you choose to |
| there are steps you can take to ensure a favorable | | | | have representation this individual will receive 25% of |
| decision. You can win your Social Security appeal | | | | your back pay should you win. |
| without hiring an attorney. | | | | Instead of having an attorney represent you, bring |
| When Social Security denies your application for | | | | other qualified individuals to speak on your behalf. This |
| disability or SSI benefits you have 60 days to file an | | | | can include your doctor, social worker, and family |
| appeal. In most states you will first file for | | | | members. Your family members know the most about |
| reconsideration and your State's Disability | | | | your disability. They know how it affects you on a daily |
| Determination Service will re-evaluate your case. If this | | | | basis. This testimony could be extremely valuable if |
| reconsideration is denied again you will have another | | | | you rely on your family members for daily activities |
| 60 days to request a hearing before an administrative | | | | such as bathing, dressing, and using the facilities. |
| law judge. | | | | Organize your case before attending the hearing. You |
| Hearings are held in Social Security's Office of | | | | should know what you want to say and how you are |
| Hearings and Appeals. When this office schedules a | | | | going to say it. Don't be afraid to use notes or an |
| hearing for you they will set up a time for you to | | | | outline. Present your case in a logical manner with |
| appear before an administrative law judge to argue | | | | witnesses and medical evidence to support your |
| your case. At this hearing you will be able to present | | | | argument and you will be well on your way to winning |
| any new medical evidence you have to support your | | | | your Social Security Disability or SSI appeal. For more |
| claim. You may also bring witnesses to speak on your | | | | information on Social Security appeals visit Social |
| behalf. This could include an attorney or disability | | | | Security Laid Bare using the link below. |