Colorado residents like you may need the support of disability insurance. You must go through a process where you make a claim. In some cases, you get access to benefits through claim approval.
But in some cases, you have to deal with a denied claim. Fortunately, it does not have to end there. If this happens, you can make an appeal.
What are the levels of appeal?
Social Security discusses how you can appeal a decision on disability insurance claims. First, you only have around 60 days after receiving the decision to make your appeal, so do not wait. There are four levels of appeal. They include:
- A hearing by an administrative judge
- Reconsideration
- A review by the Appeals Council
- A review by the Federal Court
Your first determination should include a letter explaining how they reached their decision. This letter should also contain a suggestion on the level of appeal you should make if you decide to appeal their choice.
From reconsideration to Federal Court
A reconsideration allows you to get a new, completed review by someone who did not work on the first determination. A hearing by an administrative judge must get carried out by someone with no ties to your first determination. It happens within 75 miles of your home. This is a good option if you do not agree with the reconsideration.
The Appeals Council may decide to deny your request. If it grants your request, it decides your case itself or turns it to an administrative judge. The Federal Court review is the only option not available online. It is to aid you if you disagree with the Appeals Council or they deny your request.
You can request to make an appeal at any level online.
