If your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) application is denied in California, you are not alone—most applicants face at least one denial. The good news is that the SSA offers multiple appeal levels, and many people are eventually approved during the appeals process. Knowing the steps in California can help you stay prepared and avoid costly delays.
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Step 1: Reconsideration
- Timeline: About 3 to 5 months
- If your initial SSDI application is denied, the first step is to file for reconsideration.
- A new examiner at California’s Disability Determination Service Division (DDSD) reviews your case.
- You can submit additional medical records and evidence at this stage.
- Approval rates remain low, but it is an important step before requesting a hearing.
Step 2: Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Timeline: 12 to 18 months (depending on the California hearing office)
- If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ.
- The hearing is often the most important stage in the appeal process.
- At this stage, you can:
- Testify about your condition
- Present new medical evidence
- Have witnesses or experts testify
- Many applicants are approved at the ALJ hearing.
Step 3: Appeals Council Review
- Timeline: 6 months to 1 year
- If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the SSA Appeals Council.
- The Council may:
- Approve your claim
- Send your case back for another hearing
- Or uphold the denial
- Most claims are not approved here, but it is still worth pursuing if you have strong grounds.
Step 4: Federal Court Review
- Timeline: 1 year or more
- The final step is filing a lawsuit in U.S. District Court.
- This step requires legal representation and can be a lengthy process.
- Federal judges review whether the SSA made errors in handling your case.
How to Strengthen Your SSDI Appeal in California
- Submit complete medical records that clearly document your disability.
- Work closely with your doctors to ensure they provide detailed statements.
- Meet all appeal deadlines (you have 60 days to request each appeal stage).
- Hire a disability attorney—claimants with legal help have higher approval rates.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we guide California residents through every stage of the SSDI appeal process. Our team can:
- File your appeal quickly to meet SSA deadlines.
- Gather strong medical evidence to support your claim.
- Represent you at hearings before California ALJs.
- Fight for your rights all the way to federal court if necessary.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If your SSDI claim was denied in California, don’t give up. Call Hogan Smith for a free consultation. Our experienced disability attorneys will help you navigate the appeal process and fight for the benefits you deserve.
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