1. Why SSDI Claims Get Denied

Before appealing, it helps to understand common reasons for denial, such as:

• Insufficient medical evidence to prove the severity of your condition
• Failure to follow prescribed treatment without a valid reason
• Income above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits
• Incomplete or inaccurate application information
• SSA’s conclusion that you can still perform past work or adjust to other types of work

Knowing the reason for your denial, which is stated in your denial letter, will guide how you build your appeal.

2. Steps to Appeal a Denied SSDI Claim in Minnesota

A. Request for Reconsideration

Deadline: You must file your reconsideration request within 60 days of receiving your denial notice.

• What it is: A complete review of your claim by a different SSA examiner who did not participate in the original decision
• How to file:
• Online at ssa.gov under your My Social Security account
• By submitting form SSA-561 in person or by mail to your local SSA office
• What to include:
• Updated medical records, including recent test results, specialist evaluations, or new treatments
• Additional statements from your doctors detailing how your condition affects your ability to work

B. Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.

• Deadline: File your request within 60 days of receiving the reconsideration denial
• What to expect:
• You will present your case in person or via video conference
• The ALJ will review all medical evidence and hear your testimony
• You may bring witnesses, such as a vocational expert or family members familiar with your daily limitations
• Preparation tips:
• Review your entire case file
• Be ready to explain how your condition prevents you from working any jobs
• Ensure your doctors provide detailed medical source statements supporting your limitations

C. Appeals Council Review

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the SSA Appeals Council.

• Deadline: File within 60 days of receiving the ALJ decision
• What it involves:
• The Appeals Council will review the ALJ’s decision for legal or procedural errors
• They may decide your case themselves, send it back to the ALJ for another hearing, or deny your request

D. Federal Court Review

If the Appeals Council denies your request or upholds the ALJ’s decision, your final option is to file a lawsuit in U.S. District Court.

• Deadline: File within 60 days of the Appeals Council decision
• Note: At this stage, it is highly recommended to have an experienced disability attorney representing you due to the legal complexities involved.

3. Tips for a Successful SSDI Appeal

• Act Quickly: Each appeal stage has strict deadlines. Missing one could force you to start your entire application over.
• Gather Strong Medical Evidence: Ensure you have updated records, specialist notes, imaging studies, and detailed statements explaining how your condition prevents you from working.
• Follow Treatment Plans: Demonstrating compliance with prescribed treatment shows SSA you are doing everything possible to improve your condition.
• Be Honest About Limitations: Clearly explain how your daily life is affected, including tasks you can no longer perform due to your disability.
• Seek Professional Help: Appealing an SSDI denial is often complex. An experienced disability attorney can guide you through each step, organize strong evidence, and represent you at hearings.