How long do I have to appeal my Social Security disability denial?
If your Social Security disability case has been denied. You need to know how long you have to file your appeal. You only have so much time before your deadline. If you miss that window of opportunity, you may be back to square one.
Check your denial
The best tip I can offer if your case is denied is to check the paperwork. While there are several common deadlines, if you do not definitely know how long Social Security gives you to appeal, you may be using the wrong deadline.
The paperwork you are looking for is typically a denial. However, it may also be called a “decision,” “notice of disapproved claim,” “notice of proposed action,” or something else. The thing to keep in mind is that whenever Social Security decides something on your case, they will also tell you the following:
The appeal options. What you can do if you disagree with the action or decision.
The appeal process. What forms you need to fill out, where to get them, where to turn them in, or the website to go to appeal.
How long you have to file the appeal.
If you have lost your Social Security denial?
If you no longer have your Social Security paperwork, give your local Social Security office a call. You can also call the toll-free Social Security number at 1-800-772-1213.
Social Security should always be able to tell you the most recent decision (or action on your case) and any applicable deadlines.
Lets get down to brass tacks. Here are the most common Social Security deadlines:
When Social Security problems arise, watch out for deadlines!
You, or your child, are on Social Security, when out of the blue, you get a letter:
Your benefits will cease as of …
or
An overpayment was detected due to your failure to notify Social Security of your spouse’s income …
or
Since turning 18 years of age, we have determined that you are no longer disabled under our rules …
You may be thinking, “this is clearly a mistake;” “I go in every year with my spouse’s paystubs;” or “nothing has changed in my condition.”
So, you call Social Security to clear this up. Maybe you make an appointment to go in. Maybe you speak to an understanding soul who says it is all a mistake. You think to yourself:
The letter said I could appeal, but I don’t need to do that, I will just get it cleared up.
Watch out!
