SSA FAQ
Frequently asked questions / SSA
I was denied disability — what do I do now?
Read the denial notice and appeal on time. In most cases, you have 60 days after you receive the notice to request the next appeal level. SSA generally assumes you received the notice five days after its date unless you show otherwise.
Appeal instead of starting over
Many denials can be challenged through reconsideration, an Administrative Law Judge hearing, Appeals Council review, and sometimes federal court. The next step depends on the notice and where your claim is in the process.
Filing a new application does not preserve an appeal deadline and may affect the date used to calculate benefits. If you think the decision is wrong, get help quickly and file the correct appeal before the deadline. If you missed it, ask SSA about good cause as soon as possible.
Get help with the denial
Look at the reasons SSA gave, the medical evidence it considered, and any deadlines in the notice. A representative can help identify missing records, prepare an appeal, and explain what evidence could address the stated reasons.
Related guides
This page gives general information, not legal or medical advice. SSA rules and your case details matter. Check current notices and amounts with SSA or a qualified representative.