What to Do If You Get Denied

Don’t Panic – You’re Not Alone

If you got a denial letter, you’re in good company. About 6 out of 10 applications are denied the first time. It’s normal to feel upset or scared, but a denial does not mean you’ll never get benefits. Think of it as a detour, not the end of the road.

The key is to act quickly—you usually have 60 days to file an appeal. Many people who appeal, especially with the help of a lawyer, eventually win their benefits. Shawn Taylor has helped countless West Virginians overturn denials, so don’t lose hope.

Why Most Claims Are Denied at First

Denials often happen because of paperwork issues, not because you don’t deserve benefits. Common reasons include:

• Missing or incomplete medical records

• Not enough detail about how your condition limits your work

• Small mistakes on forms or missed deadlines

• SSA deciding (based on paperwork alone) that your condition isn’t severe enough

In many cases, the problem is simply not enough clear medical evidence. A lawyer can help find what’s missing—like extra test results or a detailed letter from your doctor—and make sure it gets included in your appeal.

Act Quickly – Start Your Appeal

You have about 60 days from the date of your denial letter to appeal (called a Request for Reconsideration). The sooner you file, the better. Appeals can be filed online or by submitting forms to Social Security.

Here’s how to strengthen your appeal:

• File the appeal paperwork correctly and on time (a lawyer can do this for you).

• Submit an “Appeal Disability Report” with any new treatments, medical records, or test results.

• Ask your doctors for detailed reports explaining how your condition prevents you from working.

• Address the exact reasons listed in the denial letter—for example, if SSA said “not enough evidence of X,” make sure you provide that evidence.

This appeal is basically a second review by a new examiner, so it’s your chance to make the strongest case possible.

The Appeals Process – Steps After a Denial

If your disability claim is denied, you still have several chances to appeal:

1. Reconsideration

Your case is reviewed again by a new examiner. Approval rates are low at this stage, but it’s an important first step.

2. Hearing with a Judge

This is often where people succeed. You and your lawyer can explain your situation directly to an Administrative Law Judge, either in person, by phone, or video. About half of cases are approved here, though it can take months to get a hearing date.

3. Appeals Council

If the judge denies your case, you can ask the Appeals Council to review the decision. Approvals are rare, but they may send your case back for another hearing if mistakes were made.

4. Federal Court

The final option is to file a lawsuit in U.S. District Court. A federal judge reviews whether Social Security followed the law.

Why Hire an Attorney for Your Appeal

The appeals process is complicated and can feel overwhelming. You’re allowed to handle it on your own, but having an experienced disability attorney greatly improves your chances of success—especially at the hearing stage. People with lawyers are far more likely to win benefits than those who go it alone.

Here’s why:

• Building a stronger case: An attorney knows what medical evidence Social Security is looking for and can work with your doctors to provide detailed reports.

• Preparing you for testimony: You’ll feel more confident knowing what questions to expect and how to explain your limitations clearly.

• Challenging experts: If medical or job experts testify at your hearing, your lawyer can question them effectively.

• Avoiding mistakes: Deadlines and paperwork are critical—missing one can sink your case. A lawyer keeps everything on track.

Shawn Taylor has decades of experience with disability appeals in West Virginia. He knows the judges, what they focus on, and how to present your case in the strongest way possible. Unlike some firms, Shawn personally works on every case and is available to answer your questions.

Don’t Give Up – and Don’t Wait

Most people only win after an appeal. The key is to act quickly—you usually have 60 days to appeal a denial. The sooner you start, the sooner you can get another chance at approval.

Shawn Taylor, PLLC offers:

• Free case evaluation

• No upfront costs

• Guidance on next steps, with no pressure

Remember: an initial denial is common, but it doesn’t have to be the end. With persistence—and the right help—you can strengthen your case and win the benefits you need to take care of yourself and your family.