Indiana residents who are attempting to get Social Security Disability benefits may have their initial applications denied. If an application is denied, an applicant effectively has 65 days to appeal the decision to deny benefits. An individual can choose to file appeal paperwork by mail or through an online portal. In some cases, those who choose to make an appeal online will be asked to print and submit documents by mail.
A detail-driven approach to a complex process
People who want to appeal are encouraged to follow any instructions that they are given in a timely manner. Anyone who decides to file an online appeal will likely be asked to submit an electronic form that tells an examiner more about his or her medical condition. The form will generally ask about a person’s treatment history as well as the types of limitations that a person has because of his or her condition.
If an appeal isn’t filed within 65 days, there is a chance that it could be denied. However, if an individual can provide a good reason as to why an appeal was not made in a timely manner, it might still be considered. As a general rule, administrative law judges tend to be less flexible than those who examine applications at the reconsideration level.
A person who is seeking SSD benefits may find it easier to do so with the help of an attorney who may be able to gather medical information or file appeal paperwork on a disabled person’s behalf. A legal professional may also help prepare an individual for a hearing before an administrative law judge.
