Don’t be discouraged if your first application for Social Security disability is denied; most applications are rejected at the initial level and claimants have to file an appeal to continue the process. Your chances of success are greater at the appeal level if you file your appeal in a timely matter and consult with a local New York disability lawyer to help you properly prepare the forms and provide all the necessary information that the Social Security Administration needs to decide your appeal.

Below are some guidelines for how to improve your chances of getting a disability in New York at the appeal level.

Timely Appeal

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is very strict about the deadlines it has imposed for its  Social Security disability application process, especially when it comes to appeals. If your initial disability application has been denied, you only have 60 days to appeal from the date of the denial. If your biggest concern is how to get your disability benefits in New York started as soon as possible, you should not delay in filing your appeal.

However, if you do miss the 60-day deadline, all is not lost. The SSA will agree to extensions for those claimants who can provide a compelling reason why they missed the deadline, such as a death in the immediate family or that they were too ill to apply within the 60 days.

Do not let the possibility of getting an extension lull you into filing your appeal late, though.  If you do not have a good reason for missing the deadline, you won’t get an extension.   Therefore, the best plan is to submit your appeal as soon as you receive a denial of your claim.

Don’t Give Up Too Soon

Do not be shocked if your initial application for Social Security disability benefits is denied and do not assume you will never obtain benefits. A denial letter is not a final answer. You have the right to appeal and many people only obtain benefits after appealing and attending a hearing. In fact, almost two-thirds of all initial claimants are denied. Your chances of success will only improve if you appeal.

When you apply for disability benefits, you are likely to have to deal with a long and frustrating process. Your main concern when trying to get a disability in New York should be to follow the instructions of the SSA and not give up if you receive a denial letter. Consulting with an experienced New York Social Security lawyer will also greatly increase your chance of successfully receiving the benefits you deserve.

At Hermann Law Group, we have over 50 years of experience in successfully representing Social Security disability claimants. Year after year, we are successful in well over 90% of the claims we handle. Call us today for a free initial consultation to discuss your disability matter.