Quick Answers: Social Security Administration

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is the agency that deals with your retirement benefits. Besides retirement, the agency covers several other benefit programs including Social Security Disability ((SSD), Supplemental Social Security (SSI), burial expense, survivor and dependent benefits.

I have become disabled and am unable to work. What happens after I apply for Social Security Disability?

The Social Security Administration will provide you with a handbook for you to review.

Many disability applications are denied at the first step. After the first denial of application there are three appeals steps in the administrative review process.

1. Reconsideration - claimant has 60 days to ask for a
   reconsideration. The previous and any new information
   including new medical information is reviewed by the
   Disability Determination Service (DDS).
2. Hearing - If the claimant disagrees with the
   reconsideration determination, He or she can request a
   hearing beforean Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
   The ALJ will review the evidence and hold a hearing with
   the claimaint.
3. Appeals Council - If the claimant disagrees with the
   ALJ's decision, he or she can request a review by the
   Appeals Council.

I have been denied disability benefits from the SSA. What can I do? Can you write to them and get me my benefits?

The notice of denial includes information regarding your right to file a reconsideration or appeal. Be sure you file within the time frame listed in their notice.

The Social Security Administration needs information which proves that you cannot work for at least 12 months. They look at your:

• age
• education
• past work
• physical and/or mental condition

 

 

You need to let SSA know about new medical information.

Go to the Social Security Administration website for more information.