What to Do after an SSDI Denial

Identify the Reason for Denial

A medical denial and a nonmedical denial may require different information. Check whether SSA questioned the medical evidence, work, insured status or another requirement.

Compare the explanation with your records. Note missing treatment, incorrect dates or facts that may need clarification instead of resending the same information without explanation.

Protect the Review Deadline

The ordinary administrative appeal deadline is generally 60 days after receiving the notice. SSA ordinarily presumes receipt five days after the notice date unless you show it arrived later. Follow the actual notice and act promptly; good-cause rules may allow a late request.

Do not assume that missing the deadline always means starting from scratch. Ask promptly about available options. A private inquiry does not file an appeal or extend the deadline.

Match the Next Step to the Decision

An initial denial generally leads to reconsideration, followed by a hearing, Appeals Council review and possible federal court action. You do not request all stages at once.

Keep the decision, appeal confirmation and any new evidence together. A representative can help, but appointing one is separate from submitting the appeal.

Make a One-Page Denial Summary

Write down the decision date, receipt date, issue denied and the next review level shown on the notice. Beneath that, list the facts you dispute and the records that address them. Keep this summary with the notice when contacting SSA or a potential representative. It is an organizing aid, not a substitute for the required appeal request. Confirm that the request was received and retain any submission number or acknowledgment.

• Separate a missing record from a disagreement about its meaning.
• Identify new treatment since the prior decision.
• Do not wait for every record before asking how to protect the deadline.